Linux for Laptops
Novell Cool Solutions: Question & Answer
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Q:
I was wondering if I can run a Linux version on my laptop. But I don't know if it would run on my laptop (Packard Bell EasyNote 7), concerning drivers and all that. And, my knowledge of any Linux version is zero. So my question is, what (free of course) Linux version just for basic laptop use. Preferably a simple version to get to know Linux (and not too big).
A:
The key question to ask when selecting a distro version for a laptop is if the laptop is modern enough to include all necessary drivers. I see from the Packard Bell web site that XP is recommended, so I suggest you go to http://www.novell.com/products/linuxprofessional/ and read up on the latest SUSE Professional offering. This distro is easily as good as XP (better in my opinion) and can be configured for the Linux newbie as well as having plenty of extras to keep you happy as you progress along the Linux road.
You will see on this page that you can obtain a Live DVD which will let you try out SUSE 9.3 without having to install it.
If you already have XP on your laptop and want to load Linux as well, so you can choose on boot up which one you want to use, SUSE is my choice, as it allows you to resize your existing partition. Follow the instructions for clean up, back up, and defragging first, and make room for SUSE. You'll find instructions for doing this in the Novell Linux Cool Solutions Newbie Pages.
SUSE has very good support for laptops, including bluetooth and many WiFi cards. The distro includes a wrapper program which allows you to use many XP drivers for devices not yet supported by Linux. If you get the packaged version, you will have the added benefit of support, and considering the huge quantity of professional software that you get for the price, the cost is extremely inexpensive compared with XP software.
So my suggestions are:
1. read the Novell web pages
2. buy SUSE 9.3 professional
3. visit your local Linux User Group and get them to install it how you've decided while you watch
4. activate the support
5. enjoy
6. write to Cool Solutions about your install experience
Regards, Stomfi
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