Linux for dummies - where to start

I have an Intel  i7 w7-64 box for my day-to-day computing. This one replaced a Q6600 Vista-32 box that today is basically dedicated to World Community Group (WCG) networked computing, while serving as a backup to the W7 box.  Both are on a simple home network, mostly for WCG & file sharing.

I’d like to move the Q6600 box to Linux, while retaining the MS stuff for now. Eventually, I want to cut the cord with MS altogether for both PCs. It’ll be tough to abandon Photoshop, but that decision is yet to come. In the short-term, I’d like to set up dual boot for this one, and bring in Office Libre, Open Office, etc.

I use an ATEN KVM switch so I can monitor & control the 2 PCs and my work notebook with a single keyboard, monitor & mouse. I don’t know how this will play with Linux.

The Q6600 PC is configured with 4 HDs, no issues with disk space for OS & programs:

1 – OS & programs

2 – Clone of #1 (cloned & tested monthly)

3 – Data

4 – Automatic daily backup of #3

Any suggestions on where to start & readings?

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Best regards,
Doug
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