Linux server flavors.. for a simple install?
 

Can anyone recommened a linux build that is relatively simple to get up and running? I need to build a linux box on my home network for some software testing and small programming tasks.

I don't want to have to build my own kernal and optimize it for every piece of hardware in the box seperately, etc.

I don't need to worry about GUI stuff - it's just for dev purposes.

The only requirement I can think of is that it's compatible with software written for Redhat/FreeBSD.

Any thoughts? Thanks in advance!

Debian is easy to install and really easy to update with apt-get,
I would recommand it.

:2 cents:

for a simple install use FreeBSD > *


:2 cents:

FreeBSD is the sane solution to your problems and RedHat is insane.

You can have a fun solution and try Gentoo or Debian for good measure.

Thanks to all who answered. I'm downloading the FreeBSD image right now - reading through the docs made it seem pretty painless.

I tried Gentoo on Monday.. and Tuesday.. and said "screw it".. I don't mind building something from scratch when I have time - but one little error during the 100+ page install process and .. well.. screwed the pooch..

Time for some BSD :-)

good man :thumbsup

While gentoo and Debian have their advantages,
RedHat has a far simpler installtion process.
RedHat has recently split their RedHat braded offerings which
include include non-free code from their GPL distribution base,
now called Fedora. Redhat 9 is still popular, but is reaching it's
official end of life.
Fedora 2 is BIG - 4 CDs (3 1/2). That sucks to download,
bt makes installtion all that much easier because you
can install just about everything you'll ever need all
at the same time, knowing that version compatibilities have already been handled for you.

If you have a high speed connection you may beable to download
Fedora overnight using bittorent.
If downloading it isn't feasible for you 'll mail you the Fedora 2
test discs. Just PayPal me $12 to cover the cost of the
discs and the postage.

Yup...i'd say freebsd is the way to go....
Gentoo is great, if you have a loooooots of spare time to install it....took a couple of days when I installed mine....compiling KDE is fucking long....but I was installing it only to check the shit out, not for server use...

I like Suse 9.0 the Yast2 install program is flawless and easy to guide through also.

V

If you want a distribution that is compatible with software for RedHat/FreeBSD.. why not go with one of those two?

I use RedHat 9 on about 12 corporate servers. Nice to work with, and they come with a LOT of software (i only install a few packages but damn - 3cds for RH 9, and even more for Fedora core :) )

Enjoy linux! :thumbsup

Serious thanks to everyone who replied.

I have FreeBSD up and running but.. I have a 1gig LAN card in that box and of course, it doesn't have built-in support, eg, doesn't detect the card. So, I can either put a standard 3-com card in and continue downloading and installing packages, or, compile the drivers into the kernal and reboot. I hate compiling almost as much as I hate doing dishes. Almost.

Heh - this is a lot of work for a test platform! But, it's a good way to learn as well.

I'm going to best buy to pick up a full distro on CD.

if i have to use linux, like my laptop, ill use slackware. for everything else, solaris :thumbsup