Advise On Linux

This is a big question to answer, so I'll make it brief. You can go to distrowatch.com. This site lists the differences of each distribution as far as included files and such. Basically, each distributioin - aside from the files and applications they include on their distribution- typically have their own proprietary utilities for their own distribution (like redhat config scripts, drake utilities, etc.). You really need to go and play around with them or read a little about them at their own respective sites. Redhat is the most supported distribution - at least in corporate america. So, they have a lot of support topics and how to's that are great. Mandrake and Suse are not bad either. I don't know what else I can give you to help you out. Like I said this is a rough answer to give because its really an opinion you have to develop on your own from your own research on the different distributions. I hope that I at least helped you out in your quest.

As answer one has stated this is a big topic that is really more a matter of preference. If you want to utilize RAID you are better off with debian over sunse redhat or mandrake. Debian supports more RAID hardware but lacks the lustre of redhat and mandrake ease of use. Sunse tends to be more networking ready from a user profile standpoint but again has less userfriendly interface. Mandrake was originally an offshoot of Redhat that supported a much improved installation structure but quickly became a system in it's own right. And Redhat is parallels Mandrake with similar installation and user GUI.

To bring you up to speed you can find concise information about linux at my site at
http://alltechdevelopment.netfirms.com/index.htm and follow to the linux topics centre-left of page for the topical links.

regards
rick

They're all different...in that they're all different.