Looking for a friendly Linux distro? Check out Linux Mint featuring the Cinnamon desktop environment. Linux Mint offers a nice straight forward way to experience Linux.
If you are new to Linux, download the install.iso, burn it to a DVD, and then boot the DVD on your PC. When you boot up from the Linux Mint DVD, it will enter a live session. The live session is for you to test drive the Linux distro, if you like it, you can then choose to install.
As mentioned at the top, BACK UP YOUR DATA! Most Linux installs will wipe your hard drive of all data. Even if you choose to install Linux along side other operating systems - BACK UP YOUR DATA! Things can go wrong, or you choose something in the install that does not do what you think it will do - BACK UP YOUR DATA!
Before you try any Linux distro, I would recommend reading their web site and forums. Taking some time to read about a Linux distro, especially the install notes, can help with a smoother experience when you try it out.
Check out Linux Mint 14 Nadia, featuring Cinnamon 1.6 desktop environment!
