htpc OS and Application recommendations

[smush]

Hi. I have an ASUS Nettop that I'm going to use as a HTPC.
Which operating system is best for HTPC Windows or Linux? If Linux, which distro? I'm also looking at what software I will need to go with it. I think anti-virus would be necessary?? since I'm doing the film downloads from the HTPC as well as light browsing. Aswell as this are there any other must-have or recommended software for a HTPC (media players, etc, etc)?

Thank you

[jim]

For Linux, MythTV.

For Windows, XP or 7 with MediaPortal and the SAF codec pack on their forums. MS Security Essentials for antivirus.

I'm assuming your downloaded films are all legal.

[Funkstar]

Have a look at MediaPortal, although it might be a bit big and heavy if you are just playing local content. it comes into its own if you have multiple clients and a central server for TV and media.

[Salazaar]

I tried Mediaportal for a while but I ended up finding the interface and stability of Windows Media Centre 7 to be better for day to day use. Though Mediaportal is much more adaptable.

Windows > linux if you're planning on playing blu-rays, they're just not supported under an open source platform because of all the licensed copy protection.

[smush]

SAF codec pack on their forums. MS Security Essentials for antivirus.

I'm assuming your downloaded films are all legal.

MS SE? Would you really recommend it for a HTPC I was going to go with Avira since it is more secure and light-weight.
Yes my downloads are legal!

Mediaportal... So would this be used as a library for the movies?

Is Windows Media Player the preferred player on HTPC?

[dangel]

MS SE? Would you really recommend it for a HTPC

Yes, and in fact for any PC really - even netbooks.

[jim]

MS SE? Would you really recommend it for a HTPC I was going to go with Avira since it is more secure and light-weight.
Yes my downloads are legal!

Mediaportal... So would this be used as a library for the movies?

Is Windows Media Player the preferred player on HTPC?

MS SE is lightweight, and keeps right out of the way. I've got Kaspersky on my HTPC at the moment, at first opportunity it's coming off and being replaced with MS SE.

Mediaportal is used as a library, a front-end, and player.

Download the Moving Pictures plugin as well, and it will automatically tag all of the films with appropriate info, images, plot summaries and so on.

[smush]

Would have said Kaspersky was a no no on a HTPC anyway .
Anyway, I shall have a look at the mentioned software and maybe give MS SE a go.

Thanks for the recommendations.

[jim]

Well, I had a license for it going spare so it made sense at the time.

[smush]

True. Don't know if it's possible but could have saved it for when a license on another machine expires.

[jim]

Nah, it was time-limited so a use it or lose it scenario