I have no idea how to use Linux let alone write programs for it.
All know is that I have plans to build a machine that requires pretty smart software .
so what to do about it. Well I better Learn about it.
I already have the skills to build the machine but it will not work without pretty smart software.
We have similar machines at work but they use windows xp and to be honest windows xp sucks. Not only that but my machine will be a big step up and I do not think windows would cut the mustard.
So my question to you guys is where do I start.

where do you start what? Installing Linux? or writing software?


And what kind of "pretty smart software" are you talking about? Do you need your computer to do a specific task?

Hi, and welcome

The regular recommendation : install a distro, and experiment/get your hands dirty. you might want install two distros side by side, or into a Virtual machine; different or same. and try changes on one before putting them on the "stable" one.

Serafean

Yep!!--Pick a distribution and install it. Anything in the top ten on the "hit list" here: http://distrowatch.com

Exactly the same as you would for windows when using the command line ( dos prompt) there are loads of distros to choose from and I recomend you install each of them and give them all ago !! I found DEBIAN and MINT-8 to be the best for me.

(LINUX is a steep learning curve BUT WELL WORTH IT !!!!!!)

My advice is to install XP which you are familiar with, then download the MINT-8 image file (ISO) and burn to disk, then install MINT-8 by booting from the DVD you just burned which will install GRUB giving you dual boot options at start up. this has worked out of the box everytime for me. I have also partioned a DATA partion which is shared by both OS
but I must admit that it was so long since I booted into XP I had managed to forget my password....

Get a few issues of a linux magazine, they always have installable distro's on the cover disk making it easy to install.... try all the distros, each one has something special to offer and are quick to install, I prefer the DEBIAN strain simply as it was my first intro to linux.
most tasks in linux are done from the 'terminal' (just like dos shell, but exponentialy more powerful), there are plenty of tutorials on the net.

there are loads of experts on this forum who will always put themselves out to help beginners so please ask.

good luck!


graham

Yep...pick a distro...install it - and then trawl the forums here @ LQ (as well as other sites on the net) - to learn how to do simple things and work your way to more complex things.

I think the earlier post about running multiple distro's side by side would also be advisable; to figure out what you're most comfortable with (eg. I love anything RHEL rpm based, some swear by Slack, others stand by Ubuntu ).

Not sure what you mean by "pretty smart software" - so it would be great if you could explain a bit about that

Cheers
Yas

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Use it for what ? In what way do you think it's different than 'using' Windows, or MacOS, or whatever ?

The same way you write programs for any other OS. Choose a language appropriate to the task, which is also supported on the platform of choice, and away !

What is 'smart software' ? You sound like you have not a clue what you are talking about ?

That's usually the first step, I have had limited success with not learning, and just doing.

To quote Ronald Reagan "there you go again". WTF is 'smart software' ?

Right, so you can be judgmental about Windows XP, even though you know nothing about Linux (or likely any other OS). You sound like you are either a complete moron, or a troll (a very strange troll)

Buy a ladder and a sharper knife.

At the beginning.

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Hi,

This post helped the 'OP' how?

The last paragraph seems applicable to 'YOU';
As per the LQ Rules;

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Hi,

Welcome to LQ!

As with everything you must start somewhere, take that first step. You have several modes of operation to choose from. You could install XP if it supports the hardware and then either install a GNU/Linux distribution of choice as a dual boot or use a Virtual Machine to install to. Or install a GNU/Linux distribution and a Virtual Machine to have Xp.

A test drive using a LiveCD would be one way. You can look at 'The LiveCD List' or 'DistroWatch'. This would allow you to feel a distribution on the hardware and select the one that is comfortable.

You can look at several referenced links that will aid in your endeavors;

Linux Documentation Project
Rute Tutorial & Exposition
Linux Command Guide
Utimate Linux Newbie Guide
LinuxSelfHelp
Getting Started with Linux
Advanced Bash-Scripting Guide
Linux Home Networking

BTW, look at 'Linux Books & Online Magazines' section of 'Slackware-Links' for some free information.

The above links and others can be found at 'Slackware-Links'. More than just Slackware® links!

Always worth a try, though (ever in hope of the totally intuitive language!)

Two basic choices for a newbie. One is a virtual machine. It allows you to play with linux on a MS system without borking it.

Second best way would be to boot to a live usb or live cd. See pendrivelinux.com for ideas.


Be careful not to mess up your system before you learn how to fix it.

Hi,

Actually that is how someone will learn. If you break it then learn where the problem is. Then fix it.

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That is mostly how I learned.

That, and A whole lot of reading.

...and, last but not least, with the help of people here at LQ!

I am sad to say I am in the same boat as you

Same advice as given to chrisbaby - install one or more distro's; experiment and learn how to do simple things - working your way up to more complex stuff.

We all started in this boat and believe me when I say that EVERYONE including the senior members/Gurus/Mods learns new stuff constantly This is the beauty of Linux

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