Installing Linux as the main operating system on a spare computer is one way to explore it. Some versions can also run live on a CD or DVD, but a more flexible choice may be to run it “virtually.” That way, it can run within Windows or Mac OS X and a variety of Linux versions can be installed. Programs like VirtualBox or VMware Fusion make this possible.

Image Linux, the open source operating system, comes in different varieties to meet different needs. Bodhi Linux’s emphasis on minimalism and performance makes it a choice for older systems.

To do this, you will need to figure out a few things. Does your computer have a 32-bit or 64-bit processor? (Most newer ones are 64-bit, but Linux is available for either.) And you may need to enable your processor’s virtualization capabilities. If you become stuck, plenty of online tutorials are available to help.

There are many types of Linux. At their core, many are the same. But their interfaces and applications may differ, as well as the level of support from the open-source community.

Bodhi Linux is all about minimalism and performance. This makes it an option for older or “low-end” systems. The desktop setup, called Enlightenment, is frugal with resources while offering an eye-catching and straightforward experience. The desktop is free of clutter, the task bar is well organized and menus are easy to navigate. The other stated ideal of Bodhi is choice. While only a basic set of applications are installed by default, users can download more from an AppCenter with free software organized in categories like office, education and multimedia.

Linux Mint offers a choice of desktop environments, including one called Cinnamon. A Mac or Windows user may find Cinnamon intuitive to navigate. There is a task bar along the bottom, with a menu button on the left that provides access to applications, system settings and folders. A number of useful programs can be installed by default, like LibreOffice, an Office-like software set; the Firefox browser; Adobe Flash for media like YouTube videos; Thunderbird for mail; Pidgin for instant messaging; and GIMP for image editing. A built-in Software Manager provides a way to download and install many more applications.