answer:man you’ve got it made. that machine sounds perfect for linux…. especially with the usb wireless adapter (you don’t have to worry about getting drivers for a pci adapter . . ndiswrapper, etc..) i’ll leave it to the more knowledgeable linux geeks to help you out more, but you def should have fun with that machine. i’ve personally only used ubuntu, and suselinux some at work (i’m a technician for an IT department. . and a graphic designer haha. i like you!) um… when (taking the ubuntu course…) installing the flavor you can format/partition the hd however you please. i mean if you don’t need anything on there why not? start clean! i know some other people around here can help you out tons more. but goodluck and have fun with that thing evan