Setting up linux on a PC

[mhsabir]

OK. Like I mentioned in another thread a while back, I now have a laptop with an ahem Windows 7 version, and Ubuntu 12.04 LTS version installed. This already has lot of data & stuff belonging to the ex-owner and hence would like to clean everything up & start afresh and setup for the new owner. So
a) What version(s) of Linux would be good for a newbie PC user (has done some basic stuff on Windows), I am thinking of even intsalling more than one version if required, so that they can play around and use which they are comfortable with
b) What is the best method to get complete rid of the current stuff? Download ISO & format & install afresh from DVD? Or format from within existing Ubuntu 12.04. Suggestions welcome.
I know there would be a pleahotra of info availble online. But want to get some pointers from folks here where to start. I guess, I would be able to take care once I get some inputs to start with...

 

[Nishant]

Download latest Ubuntu, which is 14.04 and install the same. The installation would give option to completely erase the HDD and start afresh.

If you want more than one version of Linux installed, Linux Mint is what I suggest after Ubuntu.

 

[mhsabir]

OK... Download initiated. I am actually casually exploring the Ubuntu 12.04 now. Looks decent for a newbie.
I guess I will setup Ubuntu 14.04 & then take it from there. I am assuming downloading any other linux on top of that should be easy enough...

 

[Nishant]

If you indeed plan to install another version, I would suggest leaving some unpartitioned space for it which would make it simpler to install.

 

[mhsabir]

Oh ok.. Yeah will do....

 

[Sushubh]

arey. forget other distros. just install kde/gnome/unity launchers. rest is usually the same across different builds.
in any case, unity is perfect for newbies.

 

[mhsabir]

Oh ok.. Guess I am a bit out of with this stuff. I guess will first set up Ubuntu 14.04 & see if I can download various launchers and stuff like that...

 

[Sushubh]

I never really understood the concept of KDE apps and Gnome apps. But from what I understand you can install them alongside Unity and pick your choice of launcher at login time. KDE is supposed to be closer to how Windows operate (at least before Windows 8 changed everything).

 

[Sai]

For newbies Ubuntu 14.04 LTS with Unity is the best. You can also try Elementary OS. KDE and all would be confusing for a first time Linux user.