I would have to say that Knoppix is definitely a step in the right direction. I have used Knoppix, as well as Vitual Linux (another Linux CD based distro) to introduce freinds and co-workers to Linux.


I find that people that are unfamiliar with Linux are blown away by the fact that it is running right off of a CD. I have even impressed some doubtful co-workers by running it on a computer with no hard drive.


Not only is it quite usefull for recovery purposes, but it is also one of the best way to introduce people to Linux in general. Kudos to Klaus Knopper.