src

I started with knoppix about 3 years ago. It was a good LiveCD but there appear to be many problems with a hd install. I now use sidux which is pure debian sid + very useful scripts; it is easy to install (dual boot with Windows if you want); NTFS support; a great manual, forum and irc for 24 hour support! I have one dual boot machine and a standalone linux box (main box). I've installed on 5 other laptops/ desktops for others and it is stable on all boxes. Debian compatibility is no problem with ability to apt-get anything in debian sid repos. There is also an excellent script for dist-upgrading, new kernels and video driver installation.

I haven't heard of any NTFS support issues over the last 6 months - seems very reliable. Always wise to back-up key work files for any system as hardware reliability can be worse than software!