Theoretically the only difference between the various distributions is primarily superficial. ..... theoretically.
In reality any rpm based distro (RedHat, Mandrake, Suse and yellowdog for you mac enthusiasts) has a tendancy to discourage you from compiling programs from source and really getting into the core of linux.
As far as programming goes, that all depends on what IDE (Integrated Development Environment) you like. Mandrake probably has more variety there.
As far as hacking ( ... and we mean the good type ... right?) I would not use either. In my opinion the best distribution for learning is Gentoo, which is by far the best documented distribution of Linux. They take you step by step in compiling the kernel and have you configure next to every aspect of the OS (It is a ridiculously long install process).
However, it will take you a while (probably a week or more) to get Gentoo fully working.
Ultimately the distribution you choose is purely a matter of preference and asking people what one they like is like asking people what their favorite color is.
You can accomplish all of these goals with either distribution. Just start taking classes at the University of Google and good luck
Last edited by Tamsco; 08-06-2004 at 01:31 AM.
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