Date: 05/13/05 (Computer Geeks)    Keywords: linux

So based on everyone's glowing reviews of Gentoo, I decided to try and install it on my test PC here at work. We're considering porting our app over to Linux and I've been given the task of picking a distro to start with (their paying me to learn Linux, sweet or what?). I wimped out a bit and chose the universal Gentoo ISO.

I must say it is really impressive. At least what I was able to get done today. I got the file system set up and was in the process of installing the Stage 3 tarball when I noticed that it was getting HDD media errors (bad sector) pretty regularly. I assume this means the HDD is probably unstable. Is this correct? I plan on hunting down another HDD (we have a few floating around here) and trying again.

As I speak it's still installing, but I'm pretty sure that the HDD is not to be trusted (unless the errors are normal; which is unlikely).

I am really impressed with the handbook. It really does a great job of walking you through the layout of a Linux installation. I feel much more confident in command-line operation (I haven't used command-line since DOS 6.22!) and I'm starting to get the hang of the file structure. I'm certain that a full install will leave me with a fairly deep understanding of what is under the Linux hood.

This makes me wonder: Are there many other distros that do this? I'm aware of Core, but that is about it. Anyone have any experience with Core? What are it's strengths and weaknesses?

I'm really looking forward to getting this working.

Then I have to learn WINE and try to get our app running on it. If I can run it under WINE and maintain stability, we might be able to convince the powers that be to port a native version. Thanks for everyones help and I'm really happy this community exists.

Source: http://www.livejournal.com/community/computergeeks/685016.html