Fedora

Not totally new to Linux. Have done distro installs before. At this point, I'm looking for a way out of the MS lock down I've been in. Looking for a good beginner/intermediate book. One that will cover things such as server installs as well as things like X-Windows/SAMBA installs from CLI. What I am looking to do is to install a file/server and mail system that is accessible from a Windows or OS X desktop.

i have not really decided as of yet. I am familiar with Fedora, Ubuntu, Debian and CentOS. Have not used them enough to know the real differences though.

Thanks for the help.

free linux books which may suit your needs: 12 More of the Best Free Linux Books - Part 1 - LinuxLinks News

Slightly off topic here, but have you considered FreeBSD for your needs?

IMHO as a server OS it's hard to beat - has one of the best documentation handbooks & help forums around, i love it......

easy install and completely customisable through the ports / packages / source system. it'll do what you need.

have a look and see what you think.... even if you decide it's not for you, i doubt you'll regret looking.