Hi:

I'm having a bit of trouble figuring out what type of Linux OS would be right for me. I've taken the Linux Distributor Quiz and the results recommended Mandriva.
Now that that seems sorted out, I'll go on to my question:

I need a virtualization program, similar to Parallels, that would allow me to run Linux without compromising the files on my current OS X MacBookPro.
I'm really not even sure if this is feasible. I tried running VirtualBox on a customized PC after installing Fedora 7, but was unable to get Windows up and running, which was a good thing after all as I don't have any use for that OS.

So, what would be my best approach to achieve this end? I know that I read (think it was Linux pro Magazine) that most Linux Dist. are limited in terms of wireless.
Would it be best (safer) to just format the PC HD and run Mandriva on that system? I really don't know a whole lot about Linux, but I really dig the idea, OS, internet resources, etc.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

My opinion (and this is an opinion) is that you might like Ubuntu. In terms of using it on a laptop I've found it to be the easiest and most complete. I have a macbook myself but am waiting to make the change. As far as visualization on Ubuntu I recommend VMware Server. For an ubuntu install all you need to do is download the additional script to install VMware and your done. I've never had a problem getting vmware server to work on the handful of installs that I have done with ubuntu. I highly recommend you give it a look and try the live CD before you install.

Good luck

quick questions

Why run Linux on a Mac? With Fink you can install any favorite linux package on your Mac. OS X runs with unix in the background, and if you must just run a virtual machine of Linux.

I run a VM of Debian on my Macbook Pro, so if I need Linux for some strange reason I can just launch my virtual machine of debian. Otherwise I do almost everything else natively in OS X.