I’m just getting started with running a linux machine as my main computer at work (yay!), setting everything up today. My tip for installing linux the first time is to get the repositories of software added so you can install more things though “adept” (the program that runs when you choose the “Add/Remove Programs” option from the start menu). To add the repositories just edit this file:

  /etc/apt/sources.list

Then uncomment the lines as directed in the file. You will also need to get the list of available packages by running

  sudo aptitude update

Next time you go to “Add/Remove Programs” you’ll have a much bigger list to chose from, especially if you allow unsupported and proprietary software by ticking the boxes at the top right hand side.