Can you, or any of your readers, recommend a site that gives simple instructions on using Linux? I installed it on my laptop six months ago and, despite repeated attempts, I have failed miserably to install any programs at all (so can only use the pre-installed stuff). I've read several "easy to follow" (yeah, right) pages, but none made any sense. Paul Mann
Your experience might well be common, but I suspect many ordinary users just try a Live CD (which doesn't require installation) then give up. Part of the problem is that Linux comes in dozens of different versions that may work in different ways, and different people install different desktops (usually KDE or Gnome) and applications, so it's hard to produce a universal guide. Another part of the problem is that most Linux experts don't have a clue about writing for real newbies who only know Windows.
In theory, your best bet is Ubuntu: this is the current bandwagon, it's most likely to attract other newbies and therefore most likely to attract support. However, I don't know of a good guide for switchers. There is a Linux Newbie Guide, which has a stab at explaining how to install software using one of the graphical front ends. Does anyone know anything better?
