Linux tries to flatten the learning curve

Linux Reality

Web: http://www.linux reality.com

Feed: http://feeds.feed burner.com/linuxreality

We’re a big fan of folks being inquisitive and testing new ways to get under the hoods of their computers. You may love Apple, and you might be happy with Windows XP. But it won’t hurt you to try out Linux, the open-source operating system that lets people do nearly the same thing the “official” systems do, but with a little sense of adventure and learn-as-you-go.

By and large, Linux comes in free versions. But the variety of options is bewildering, hence the need for someone to guide you through the choices.

Linux Reality is a weekly podcast aimed at the novice to Linux. It’s now in its 88th episode and has covered a wide swath of newbie information — from how to find the right Linux version (known as a “distro,” short for distribution) to how to use the command line when you really want to tweak features.

Episodes run between 15 and 30 minutes. And since it’s part of the O’Reilly Web network, this podcast isn’t likely to fold anytime soon. If anything, it’s improved as the hosts respond to listener feedback.

Strong suit: Good, basic information that’s not too geeky.

Personality: Helpful.

Value: Three and a half stars, out of five.