linux distribution

It was exactly one year ago today that I published my original "The 10 Best Linux Distributions" and it's time to put forth a new list for this year's best.

Without looking at the old list, I've decided to compile this one from scratch. This 2009 list takes several factors into account for placement in the list: Community support, commercial support, software variety, update engine and distribution frequency.

Even for old Linux salts, there are a few surprises on this list.

Ubuntu has redeemed itself with its latest version 9.10 (Karmic Koala).

I took a look at Ubuntu 9.10 on October 1st and have been playing around with it for a few days. My first impression is that it is good stuff--seriously good stuff.

From the new, updated installer to the faster boot times, I'm impressed. Way to go Ubuntu developers, you deserve applause for this one.

My good friend and partner in crime, Jason Perlow is working on (as I'm writing this) a new Linux distribution that is Hyper-V ready.

It is a modified OpenSUSE 11.1 that includes the Linux Integration Components (ICs) from Microsoft. He'll have a link to it on his blog in a day or two for everyone to use.

So, Jason is baking a new Linux distribution that he calls the Jason Server and he's using OpenSUSE because it's free and he can build a distribution easily on Novell's SUSE Studio.

The Linux ICs allow you to install Linux seamlessly onto a Hyper-V server and have everything just work out...

Prejudices and opinions aside, at some point in your career you'll be asked to select a viable Linux distribution for your corporate network.

How will you choose? Will you use the same distribution that you use at home or will you do some research and find something that's corporate-ready?

Are you up to the task? Do you know what to look for in a distribution to support a corporate environment?

Here are 5 ways to decide on a Linux distribution for your corporate network. 1. Commercial Support - This is a sore subject among some Linux types since most believe they can solve any foreseeable...