A Linux distribution that was originally based on Red Hat Linux, up until about version 6.1. And then they started changing things in a good way. Here are some of the features of 7.1 (latest):

- detected my zip drive on install (no other distro has succesfully done this)
- allows you to use your Windows fonts (surfing the web looks better)
- USB support (finally sync your Handspring Visor as it was meant to be synced)
- XFree86 4.0 (not sure about this one yet, as it doesn't seem to work on my Voodoo Banshee)
- automatic hardware detection!
- And many other wonderous things.

Linux-Mandrake is a GNU/Linux Distribution based on Redhat Linux (it is 100% compatible with the distribution) that offers a wide variety of packages compiled specifically for Pentium and greater processors. As of November 28, 2000, the latest release has been 7.2. It is available by FTP and HTTP, and is also available in ISO format. It can be purchased from many stores through MacMillan Publishing. The distribution focuses on ease of use, security, and offering the latest software available for the linux platform. Packages are contributed mainly by a large group of volunteers all over the internet. Linux-Mandrake's website can be found at http://www.linux-mandrake.com.

Since 6.1, Mandrake is no longer based on Red Hat. It still adheres to the standard linux file naming system, so almost all Red Hat RPM packages will work on a Mandrake box.
The current version (7.1) has lots of nifty new features like functional USB, using GRUB instead of Lilo, autodetection of hardware, and a good system for handling TrueType fonts.

Caveat for Linux newbies:

Under no circumstances are you to choose the "beginner" installation. The reason: the beginner installation has two options, a 300 megabyte barebones install, and a 600 megabyte behemoth install. No middle ground. Not to mention, it installs GRUB/LILO on hda1, that is to say, it overwrites the bootloader of whatever is on the first partition (usually windows). It does this without asking you, or telling you before it's too late. And it doesn't make a boot disk!

I would also reccomend that you avoid the "advanced" installation unless you are indeed "advanced." When Linux says advanced, it usually means it.

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Update as of Mandrake 8.1: If you have installed or used Linux before, and/or if you don't have anything terribly important on the target computer, or if your curiosity outweighs the importance of said computer, then go ahead and choose the advanced installation in Mandrake.
When Mandrake says advanced, it usually doesn't really mean it.

Disclaimer: Back up your fucking data. This is important. I am not responsible if you lose gigs upon gigs of mp3s and pr0n due to an unintentional partitioning/reformatting.

Linux-Mandrake 7.2 and 8.0 have been released since the original write-up above. Of note about 7.2:

• Automatically detected all of my hardware, including setting up my CD-RW with a SCSI wrapper, allowing it to write.
• Install consists of two CD's, one optional with extras
• Has a somewhat-centralized administration application
• Supports Red Hat packages
• Ships with eleven different window / desktop managers, including my personal favorite, Enlightenment.

Of note about 8.0:

• Has more extensive hardware and USB support, due to use of Kernel 2.4.3.
• Unfortunately, ships with an awful problem. Those using Western Digital hard drives will not be able to use this without some drastic measures. It seems that Mandrake pre-compiled the kernel with a very dangerous UDMA-workaround for WinDrive-like WDC hard drives. This leads to a lot of errors (hundreds) on the console, making it nearly useless. Also, it slows your machine down noticeably and worst of all can lead to some awful data corruption.

Between the two items listed above regarding 8.0, my personal recommendation would be to stick with 7.2 if you plan on using Linux-Mandrake.

I'd recommend Mandrake Linux to anyone who thinks that Linux is not suitable for the desktop. If you've installed the latest RedHat distribution only to end up stuck with a broken system that's never even heard of your graphics card, then Mandrake is practically calling your name.

It autodetected all of my hardware, including a GeForce 2MX, a Soundblaster Live and a network card connected to my Cable Modem. The install process is almost as user-friendly at the Microsoft Windows equivalent. Basically, you just work through these steps:

* Select a partition to install to
* Select the target role for the system (Desktop or server)
* Select additional applications to install
* Select a printer
* Select your internet connection method

And 20 minutes later, you'll be surfing the web using Netscape or Mozilla under KDE or Gnome.

Mandrake even includes an auto-updater to keep your libraries up to date without having to get your hands dirty.

I'll admit that it's still quite easy to break your newly-installed Linux system, especially if you play around with the Mandrake control panel, but to me, the Mandrake distribution is still a major step towards making Linux a credible desktop operating system.

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Hmmm... Downvotes... I guess maybe the above writeup could be considered patronizing or something, but I don't see how. After all, I am the guy who downloaded both RedHat CDs and couldn't get it to install...