Which distribution should I use? Good question! All Linux distributions are different, some are geared towards different types of uses, such as for a desktop system, or for a server, and some are geared towards different groups. Red Hat Enterprise Linux is aimed at companies, for example, whereas Mandriva is targeted more at home and desktop users. Some of the most commonly used distributions at the moment are (in alphabetical order): Debian For more information on Debian, visit , Fedora Core , Gentoo , Mandriva , Red Hat Enterprise Linux , Slackware , SUSE , and Ubuntu . There are literally dozens of others, though.  I don't have access to a fast Internet connection, where can I get hold of Linux installation media? There are several ways of getting installation media, for example: CDs are often available at GLLUG events, see the website for details of the next meeting. Look out for distributions given away with Linux magazines such as Linux Format , Linux User & Developer , and Linux Magazine . Ask on the mailing list, several members are happy to post Linux CDs on request. There are several companies who sell cheap unbranded CD sets such as Linux Emporium. This company also gives away slightly out of date Debian install CDs for just the cost of the postage. Use this CD to install your base system and then update it using Debian's built in tools. The Ubuntu project will send you a free installation CD. See here.  I'm worried about the security of my Linux server/workstation, what basic steps can I take to minimise potential problems? There are several things you can to to help safeguard your computer system, for example: Create a user other than root. If you install Linux yourself your distribution may well ask you to do this. Make sure the password for this account is different from your root password. This will improve your security, and also make it much harder for you to damage your system by accident. Make both passwords long, and not based upon a dictionary word. In many distributions the passwd command will warn you if your choice of password is insecure. Pick the highest security options whenever prompted. It is easier to turn some security precautions off if needed than to recover a compromised system. If your distribution supports it, when installing, seriously consider turning SELinux on. Never run any program received via email, IRC or any other source unless you know the person who sent it, and know that they meant to send it (i.e. it was not sent from their account by a virus or worm). Consider buying a dedicated router for your broadband connection. For a new user this will be much easier to set up, and most will provide a basic firewall, preventing external machines from connecting directly to your Linux PC. These units are often smaller, quieter, are less prone to breakage and use less power and emit less heat than a full size PC. Although you are less likely to be susceptible to viruses, worms or trojans downloaded from the Internet, still take care. Scams which attempt to get bank details or passwords (sometimes known as phishing) can affect you no matter what OS you use. Consider joining a Linux User Group (LUG). These are generally inhabited by friendly people and normally have mailing lists as well as actual meetings where you can pick the brains of experienced users.