i want to learn linux os i want to learn hands on my first problem is where can i get it and how do i install it any and all helpful " need to knows" would be wonderful thanx

If you want to figure out which Linux distro you want to play with, head over to www.distrowatch.org and do your comparison there! Basically, you want to look at Redhat (or Fedora Core now), SUSE, or Mandrake... And if you are really into it or don't mind playing (spending time) with it, then Slackware, Debian, or even Gentoo is your choice. And if you want some good HOWTOs or manuals, then head over to www.tldp.org. taurus

I would also suggest buying a good Linux book. Most come with the Linux installation CD's. I prefer the Redhat Linux 9.0 Bible by Christopher Negus. You can get it for $35 on Amazon, or $50 from the bookstore. It comes with Redhat 9.0 on the included CD's. It has lots of information for beginners and advanced users, and the info applies more or less to all Linux distros. Happy Trails.

I struggled to learn it in my spare time for years, never getting anywhere. I took a 3 day class and it made a big difference for me. (Of course it helped that the company paid for the class, :-) ). You should use a spare old computer to learn on, you will trash it and reformat several times before you get the hang of the file system. lol

If you really want to get "down and dirty" hands-on, there's always: http://www.linuxfromscratch.org Other than that, I'd recommend Slackware. You'll learn a good deal and you'll never be disappointed with its performance.