If you have ever visited a Linux support forum, the very first thing you will notice are the massive number of threads with questions similar to, "What Linux distribution should I use?" or "What is the best distribution for me?" Since these questions are asked by those who are unfamiliar with the open-source operating system and are possibly curious about it, do you ever wonder why that’s the scenario? It’s indeed very simple. When an unfamiliar individual attempts to research on Linux distributions, the search engine emits numerous webpages with links to hundreds of potential solutions for the intrigued user to try out. But instead of further amplifying the user’s inquisitiveness, the search results end up intimidating the interested, thanks to the massive number of distributions with dedicated support forums touting its competitive features. Quite obviously, such mass hysteria leads to confusion for the possible switchers.

While the contributions of the open-source community are commendable, and it’s refreshing to see a group of individuals working on a shared project with no monetary expectations, the result ends up being dire. Every time you talk to someone in the Linux community, sooner or later they will reveal their aspiration to gain more market share. This is not because they have devoted themselves to destruct Microsoft, but it’s to let others know that there are possibly better alternatives to Windows. The market share are essential to generate buzz in the otherwise Microsoft controlled OS market. But what ends up happening goes against the strategy. The only way to increase market share is to get Windows users to switch over to Linux, or at least try it on an occasional basis. Due to the number of Linux distributions, beginners are usually terrified by the overwhelming choices they encounter as soon as they scratch the surface.

Since majority of the Linux community members would like to make Linux a strong OS (in terms of market share and user-friendliness when compared to Windows), they have to change their strategy. What should happen is a group of programmers should search through the massive library of distributions, pick the strengths of each distribution and build a new distribution that is solely targeted at those interested in making a switch. Come to think of it, why even stop at that? Why not add advanced features for the knowledgeable users as well? This would be a nice way to keep everyone satisfied – add the simplicity for the switchers and advanced options for those who prefer to tweak the OS.

Once the idea has been established, programmers working on the smaller distributions can join a massive project and work to add features that they specialize in. This would bring together a massive team of specialists working for a common goal. At least it’s better than competing against each other and trying to sway users from one distribution to another.

Until that happens, here’s a quick suggestion to those interested in trying out Linux. If you don’t want to install a Linux distribution on the hard drive, check out Knoppix, MEPIS or Ubuntu. All three of these distributions boot from the CD-Rom and deliver well. If you have tried out the aforementioned distributions and would like to install one permanently, Fedora, Mandriva, SuSE or Xandros are generally recommended solutions by the experts.