Hi Davedcd,
I am responding to the bump
First off, its great to have someone else running Linux. I thought I would add some things to this topic I have learned about Linux.
Remember, all distributions of Linux are LINUX. Ubuntu, fedora,opensuse, arch, they are all the same Operating system. The only difference is the preinstalled applications, service management, and package management. Nothing else. When choosing a Linux distribution, choose the one you configure LESS for your NEEDS. When you get more experience, many users choose distributions with fewer DEFAULTS. So they can customize their systems more, but it takes more time to configure those systems.
Linux is all about choice. Don't feel forced to use on version or another.
Linux has the LARGEST SUPPORT BASE.
Better assistance requires a better Signature.
The system is usually as solid as the developer. No more.
There are many books that can teach the more advanced tools of LInux.
Linux supports more hardware.
KDE is generally the most WINDOWS LIKE Desktop Environment.
Servers run faster without GUI's, but are harder to manage. All servers should have some type of remote management. (From the local network ONLY) For quick management. SSH is the best for that purpose.
Not spending on the software lets you spend more on hardware.
I prefer Ubuntu server, but this is just my opinion.
Windows is for gaming. OSX SUCKS!!!
Ultimate Edition and Ultimate Edition Oz are AWESOME!!!
And last but not least. Linux is just as secure as OSX. Don't let Apple confuse you on that point.
If you need assistance, we are all here to help. No question is a stupid question.