Hello. I am new to Linux, and I am considering using Linux on one or more of my computers. I have a Mac Performa 630CD (m68k w/ system 7.5), Mac LC 575 (m68k w/ system 7.1), Power Mac 6500 (PPC w/ system 8.6), and a Gateway Essential PC (Intel Celeron 433 w/ Windows 98). I want to use Linux on the Macs. Here are some questions:

1. How do you pronounce the word Linux?
2. Exactly what do I need to get started with Linux? Just one CD?
3. I am thinking of using Debian GNU/Linux 3.0 for the Macs. Is this a good idea?
4. Will Linux support my current hardware (Mostly Apple products, and a PC Monitor)?
5. Will Linux support my software? Can I still use my current ISP (AT&T Worldnet)? If so, how?
6. How does Linux compare to Mac OS and Windows?

Welcome to LQ!

1. LIE nuks
2. Debian has 7-8 CD's. I wouldn't recommend it unless you're a programmer. Slack is 1 CD. But I don't know if Mac is supported.
3. Not for newbies. Do you enjoy spending an hour at package selection during install?
4. Check www.debian.org and www.xfree86.org
5. What do you mean by software? Linux run Mac software? Beats me. Most likely yes to supporting your ISP. You know when you set it up on Mac, it was a bunch of #'s. Is it dial-up or DSL/cable?
6. Mac is point-n-click. Windows is double-click whatever is shown. Linux is all command lines. Linux with X is point-n-click and little command lines.

Okay, so what do you recommend for me to use? I have a limited budget. I need that X.
I have a dial-up connection.
Thank you for the tips. --AppleMac

I would either go with a well known PPC Linux distro like Yellow Dog Linux or maybe have you thought about loading Mac OSX, the *nix like Mac OS. I actually have only messed around with it a few times but think its sweet.

Anyways, my 2 cents...

PS, about the budget, most Linux distros you can download for free. If you have access to a fast connection and burner, you can get most in iso format at www.linuxiso.org

Hmmmm isn't there a Mandrake for Apples ? that would be good if your a complete newbie to Linux, and also theres a x86 version for your p.c or you could go with trickykids suggestion for the Mac OS X, it is based on darwin, a unix/bsd based operating system....

But to sum it up, for new maybe Mandrake would do the job.

I'm sorry trickykid but OSX won't run on pre-eMac/PowerMac G3. It's a more of a power hog than XP.

AppleMac, try
http://www.mandrakesoft.com
http://www.mklinux.org
http://www.sourcemage.org
http://www.suse.com
http://www.yellowdoglinux.com

But I don't think you could run X on m68k. Your PPC has a better chance. The best way would be use your PC, then you'll have a ton of choices, plus better support.

As for getting Linux, try www.cheapbytes.com. Or you could always check out your local college bookstores. Maybe your local Linux group would gladly help you out.