new to linux

[Kanifee]

setting up a server for media streaming and internet use also to netowrk the net onto my main gaming pc, i posted in the general hardware section as i was told to go with server 2003 and wanted to check my options.
ive been told that a linux distro might be the rite choice for me namely ubuntu server ed. ive never even clapped eyes on a linux distro or a server before so im looking for a little advise and some info on how easy it is top use aswell, also what apps i would need how hard these are to get for linux.
can i use things like torrent cliants?
codecs and other stuff i may need? network adaptor drivers?

sorry for the gnorance but linux to me is like choclate gatto to a martion!

 

[MrWhippy]

...im looking for a little advise and some info on how easy it is top use aswell,
very easy usually, loads of support on many forums to get you past anything sticky

also what apps i would need how hard these are to get for linux.
most distributions come with almost everything you're likely to need, anything not on the install disk can usually be downloaded. and it's all nice and legal and free.

can i use things like torrent cliants?
yes, loads to choose from, as mentioned above, you may find there's one or more installed as standard, or on the disk to install when you're ready.

codecs and other stuff i may need?
codecs may be a seperate download, depends on the distribution of linux you use. codecs for pretty much all formats are widely available for linux.

network adaptor drivers?
if you're connecting with ethernet, it'll probably just autodetect and work.
i've no idea about adsl and what you may need to do to get that working.
wireless networking can be a little bit fiddly to get up and running, but it's loads easier than it used to be, and again, the forums usually provide the answer.

sorry for the gnorance but linux to me is like choclate gatto to a martion!
it was to us all once, don't worry, and ask questions as necessary.

we linux heads are not as unfriendly as people think