How can I start Linux and what distribution do you think I should use?

I want to use Linux because I have heard that it is significantly better than IE. My entire family is technologically inept and we only have one computer. How do you think I should start and what distribution do you recommend for a beginner who plans on programming and the like?Any helpful suggestions will be appreciated.How can I start Linux and what distribution do you think I should use?
I thoroughly recommend two Linux distros.



Linux Mint 9 Main Edition which is based upon Ubuntu 10.04



Linux Mint Debian Edition (LMDE) which is based upon Debian Lenny/Squeeze



Both are easy to install and use plus they come with much of the software you are likely to need preinstalled



Linux Mint 9 Download

http://www.linuxmint.com/edition.php?id=鈥?/a>



The Perfect Desktop - Linux Mint 9 (Isadora)

http://www.howtoforge.com/the-perfect-de鈥?/a>



Linux Mint Debian Download

http://www.linuxmint.com/edition.php?id=鈥?/a>



Linux Mint 9/Debian User Guide pdf.

http://www.linuxmint.com/rel_isadora.php

http://linuxmint.com/rel_debian.php



HowTo install Nvidia Graphics Drivers on Debian

http://wiki.debian.org/NvidiaGraphicsDri鈥?/a>



Alternatively install Linux Mint as a dual-boot with Windows using mint4win without partitioning mint4win works the same as Wubi as described below (not available on Linux Mint Debian)

http://www.psychocats.net/ubuntu/wubi



You keep Windows as it is, mint4win only adds an extra option to boot into Linux Mint. mint4win does not require you to modify the partitions of your PC, or to use a different bootloader, and does not install special drivers. It works just like any other application.



mint4win keeps most of the files in one folder, and if you do not like it, you can simply uninstall it as any other application.



Boot in to windows insert the Linux Mint LiveCD and you will offered the option of installing inside windows which is where the mint4win installer comes in, you will be asked how many gigabytes you wish to allocate to Linux Mint (I recommend 8gb) then you set a password for your installation then click install and thats it.



Once Linux Mint is fully installed upon starting your PC you will be given a choice of which operating system you want to use Windows or Linux Mint



You download the ISO. image of Linux Mint 9 or Linux Mint Debian then you need to create a Bootable LiveCD/DVD for installation



Linux Mint 9 and Linux Mint Debian can also be run direct from the LiveCD/DVD from Booting up without touching your Hard Drive









LUg.
I recommend dual boot, that way you have access to both operating systems. I would avoid any that are KDE based using KDE4, it is difficult to work with when you need to change things and doesn't have files that were in the older version. Mint Linux is good for those new to Linux and most of the software you need is already installed by the creator of Mint Linux. Once you are use to it, then Ubuntu would be easier to use. However root access is indirectly accessed. If you need one with root access, use PCLinuxOS, which is really quite simple and uses .rpm type of files.How can I start Linux and what distribution do you think I should use?
With only one computer I would have serious reservations of replacing your OS.



I would purchase one off eBay or craigslist, and then make a Linux box out of that.



In light of this, if you decide on a linux box then I would suggest Linux Mint or Ubuntu.



They both are really good for beginner.



Bets of luck.
I would start with Linux Mint or Ubuntu 10.04.How can I start Linux and what distribution do you think I should use?
I think you should go with Dual boot option. Try Red Hat Linux, that is very good