an free source operating system LINUX MINT 13 an free source operating system
Advantages Desktop Environments - Linux Mint 13 will be the first Linux Mint release that does not have GNOME as standard, instead offering two versions based on MATE and Cinnamon. Both these Desktop Environments are based on GNOME 2, with MATE being a direct fork, and the Mint developed Cinnamon built on top of GNOME 3. Ubuntu software - One of the great parts of Linux Mint is that it is built upon the latest Ubuntu distribution, giving access to the full software repository. This is packed with the latest and greatest in free software, such as the recent major updates to VLC, GIMP, and Audacity. Source: http://www.linuxuser.co.uk/features/five-reasons-to-be-excited-about-linux-mint-13-lts-mate-and-more/
Disadvantages The disadvantages of Linux Mint would be that for it would be harder to use for new users to work, it may be confusing for buyers as there are many different variations of Linux and users may be confused into deciding which one is more suitable for them, it is not as advertised or as popular as other operating systems such as Windows, therefore it may be harder to research and find answers to problems you may be experiencing with it. Source: http://batesblogyeah.blogspot.com.au/2010/12/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-linux.html
How to install from CD/DVD Burn the .iso file to a disk, insert disk and boot for disk drive. Run as live version. In the live OS click install Lunix Mint. Install and adjust options such as partitioning as necessary. Reboot OS and boot from HDD.
Why you would use Linux Mint 13 instead of Windows 7 Takes up less space on the hard drive than Windows 7. Makes older computers run faster than Windows 7. It is open sourced and fully customisable
Recommendations Recommended to students learning Python and people who cannot afford a more commercial based operating system. Wont not recommend to people that don’t know a lot about computers.
Conclusion Linux Mint 13 is a highly versatile, fully customisable operating system which is useful for students studying Python. For regular people however it would be best to try something else.