Mandrake 10.1, or whatever: Is it for desktop, for home use?

[morningglory]

I am getting ready to get going with Linux. Would like to try dual boot, with option to "go back" in case of scrogged system. I was very conversant with DOS, used Unix a little. Am able to read books and learn. Just want to get started with something easy, where I can grow by reading. Need internet, email, word processing. Any suggestions?

[qnr]

1. Mandrake (or Mandriva, now) is a fine choice for you

Almost any distribution will give you the items you are looking for (exceptions being certain stripped distros, meant mostly for repair or other tasks along those lines.).

[cprise]

2. Xandros is my personal favorite

...a quintessential desktop Linux. You can get it here.

Mandriva should also fit the bill.

[Tux]

3. Personally

I like Fedora and Ubuntu but for now, I'd recommend Knoppix. It'll allow you to play with Linux without having to install it. It even writes files to the hard drive if needed at least the last time I used it (may have to Linux PC is dying here and notebook's wireless only works on Windows). Give Knoppix a try for awhile and it even allows you to install it to the hard drive if you want.

[Mojambo]

4. As soon as I get my new HD I'm going to dual boot Windows and Mandriva

Windows will be a gaming OS only.

I can't wait.