OStatic

Jack Wallen wrote a great article over at Tech Republic outlining 10 things you need to consider when choosing a Linux distribution. He says though fundamentally the same, the various distros are not created equal and it behooves users to take a look at some key issues when deciding what flavor of Linux is right for you.

Among his recommendations, Wallen suggests that users should decide if their preferred distro meets their needs in terms of security, hardware, and the community support it offers. He makes some great points, and there are more.

What real-life support do you have access to?

As Wallen notes, the communities of most distros are solid and its members are happy to help with installation and troubleshooting questions -- but accessing that help can take time. If you have a lot riding on the success of your Linux deployment -- you're hoping to sway the boss, or your setting up a few machines for a classroom -- then you'll want to know that help is just a phone call away. After you've narrowed down your list of choices, check to see what distros the people you know are using.

Will you be the only user?

At first blush, that may seem inconsequential but while you may be ready to take Linux for a spin, other people who also use the same computer may not be. Learning your way around OpenOffice.org might be fun for you, but your Word-loving spouse might not think so. Does someone in your family play World of Warcraft? Be prepared to get it running with Wine or Cedega so they can get to their next raid on time.

Will your peripherals work?

Wallen touched on the hardware driver detection issue, but I'd add that you'll want to make sure that all your odds and ends will work also -- MP3 players, video cameras, headsets, etc. Wine can help you out here too, but it's better to know ahead of time what works and what doesn't, so look for a distro that you know can support the devices you own.

Will you mind waiting in line for new apps?

If you like to be the first to try new applications and software, you might be disappointed to find out that you'll have to wait your turn for a Linux version of something that's already available for Windows or Mac users. Fortunately, the development lag time window closes more quickly these days, as the number of Linux users continues to steadily grow. As an added bonus, Linux developers have been first to market lately with some neat tools and apps that Windows and Mac users have to wait for! To avoid headaches, make sure the distro you select already has the applications and tools that correspond to what you already use every day.

What would you add to the list of things to think when you're trying to choose a Linux distribution?

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