Getting a new OS, any thoughts on which is best?

[Wondering Soul]

Hey :)

I've just recently bought another server for a business im running with a friend (plus a few other sites) and I decided to experiment with some of the different Operating Systems! In the past (and still on my main server) I have always ran Red Hat Linux and never really felt the need to change but with this new server im looking to do just that :)

So, I narrowed it down to these:

Ubuntu, CentOS, Gentoo, Debian, Fedora and Suse

Im basically looking for some thoughts about which you prefer and why really, just so I know what's what about each :)

Thanks =)

[rct2·com]

CentOS = rebadged RedHat. Free but no support.
Ubuntu is a Debian flavour I think. Most people I know prefer Ubuntu over all your options.
Fedora is not [in my opinion] appropriate for running a business on.
SUSE I don't really have an opinion.

[Wondering Soul]

Hi, thanks for your input! I was thinking of using Ubuntu as that's what some people I know had suggested. I have to wait a few days before it gets built so I have some time to think =)

[bfarber]

Ubuntu, though, when you say most people prefer, are you talking about server or desktop? I don't see many servers identifying themselves as running Ubuntu while doing support. I'd definitely stay away from FreeBSD. I know there are fans out there, but it seems to behave quite different than most other versions of Linux.

We use CentOS on our servers if it's of any help.

[Wondering Soul]

Hey!

It would be for a server environment, not desktop. After its been built, im going to put CentOS on it because i've heard its very reliable and reasonably smooth. As for Ubuntu, I think ill install on one of my older servers and see what its like...thanks for your input :)

[bfarber]

I'm not saying Ubuntu is bad mind you. I don't have any real experience with it - could be a really good option, just haven't run into it much myself.

[Wondering Soul]

Yea. Im going to test it out anyways, see what's what and such. Used to have it as a desktop OS and it was pretty good but not sure what its like as a server environment...ill give it a try and see =)

[W13]

Debian has treated us well for years... I'd say go with it.