Linux help please!

okay i got a aspire one with the 8 gb ssd and 1gb of ram and xp on it. i would really like to run linux so i need some direction? i would like a linux that is easy to install, runs very smoothly on these laptops, and finally i would like it to be a fairly minimal cpu usage while running.

 

Have you checked out the various discussions in the Linux sections of the forum? Pick a live CD/USB version of Linux, and try it out. If it meets your needs install it, if not, try another version

 

well how do u install via usb?

 

If you are new to Linux and unfamiliar with the CLI (Command Line Interface) then I highly recommend you try Mandriva 2009 Gnome. It has the fewest number of "fixes" needed. You can get it at....
http://www.mandriva.com/en/download/free
Be sure to select the Gnome version because from what I have seen here it is a little more difficult to get the KDE version working right. Good luck.

Also be sure and get the Backup Solution offered by Rbil on his blog....
http://aaobackup.blogspot.com/2008/10/purchase-just-software-2000-cad.html It is well worth the expense and works great.

Also I would advise getting an USB external CD drive. They are not very expensive and can make life much easier for you. Especially when installing OS's. There are quite a few people that seem to have trouble installing from USB sticks.