Re: [Lilux-help] FreeBSD, compile from source and Distributions

Patrick Kaell wrote: Let's face it - i am a *user*, not a geek. My intention is to have a working computer that allows me to do the basic operations: word processing, spreadsheets, Internet browsing and emails. I am not looking for the purest or technically best implementation of an OS, just something that is stable, fun to use, and as free (beer) as possible. I am, today, a Windows user, so I have a working PC which allows me to do what I want. I am tempted by Unix and FreeBSD came pretty close to convincing me. But the two things where FreeBSD failed, and that's purely a matter of personal preference, is: -1- lack of binary distributions I am still looking for a good reason to compile everything from source. Maybe there is one. Until I find it, a binary distribution has the following advantages: - saves you plenty of time - gives you a guarantee that the binary actually work, which may not be the case if you compile it yourself. -2- lack of commercial support I like the idea of Debian, but I wouldn't get religious about it. An OS should be free, but I am willing to pay for programs if they suit my needs and if the price is fair (unlike MsOffice, for example). Linux has been adopted by companies, so the chances to find commercial software are far better that with FreeBSD. AIX did not convince me as much as FreeBSD. On our Regatta boxes, it works very well, but I wouldn't use it at home. My current (theoretical) preference is Debian, because it is considered a complete OS and has a good packet management. There is another point for Debian: as I am working in IT, and as Debian is the base for a high number of distributions, I hope that it will give me a good basic understanding for Linux distributions I might have to use at work (although, generally, SuSE and RH are used there). Regards, -pu