I'm looking for a distro of linux (any one works!) that will accept AND recognize the following device:

802.11b Wireless USB Adapter
http://www.netgear.com/products/details/MA111.php

And I would love it if I didn't have to apply a kernel patch/change in order to get it to work... I know FC3 requires some really confusing stuff to get the adapter to recognize the file (via drivers). Do ANY distros come preinstalled with a driver like this?

Thanks!

if you want to install a simple, no customize linux distro, then try Lyoris or SuSE or Fedora or Mandrake (mandriva).

They *might* have the driver you are looking for.

However it is BEST to install the driver your self, as you will eventually need to upgrade your kernel (why? -- new hardware, better kernel, more secure, etc).

This will allow you to understand the procedure and setup better and you will be more equipped to deal with errors and problems.

Remember that the linux companies don't have the money to force drivers out of OEMs nor can they try and test a large set of hardware for compatibility. So the default drivers included w/ a distro may not work for your particular setup (hardware / software)

The power of linux is self-customization, and community.
If you are unable or unwilling to do things by hand, then linux is probably not for you.

Select a simpler OS such as Windows or Mac OS

I'm thinking of trying out slackware, so I'll definitely look over the installation.

A little question: when you install a driver, aren't you recompiling a kernel with the driver in it, therefore wouldn't the driver go away EVERY time you installed a new kernel?

New kernels are coming out all the time with new drivers.It just takes them a little time to develop them,they are all volunteers.
If you need a driver that isn't in the kernel you apply a "patch"If there is a new kernel you want to install and it doesn't have the driver you need you "patch" again.If you get a kernel that works good for your hardware you really don't need to install the "next best super kernel"it is not going to be that much difference.I use to redo my kernel all the time,It was like a learning experience.but I didn't really notice that much difference or it was worse.
See if this helps;
http://www.linuxquestions.org/questi...104#post700104

You may as well come to the realization now that if you're going to use Linux there are going to be "hands on" tasks that have to be done, especially in the area of hardware support.

Choose a distro, and do whatever it takes to get your hardware to work. It's a good learning experience and the more you do it the easier it gets.