Re:Getting Started with BSD (Score 5, Informative)

Hey, I once had the same idea (and I'm still on BSD until now), so here is a big clue: FreeBSD. This is a robust and fast OS, very well organized. It has a straightforward method for updating (you can *easily* compile the entire system by yourself) , also featuring an extremely easy-to-use and powerful ports system (the way you can install apps... it's much simpler than anything like apt-get or so). Also, on their site you can find a complete, up-to-date and freely available BOOK about using, administrating and getting the best of your system. Try it, I'm sure you would like!!!

Get the ISO (assuming you have an i386):
Only first CD is enough

On the Handbook, you find the installation instructions on the second chapter:
Here is the link

Okay, I think it's a good start... Note that if your box is not an i386 you still have options... just search their ftp site

Another thing, on their site, you can find two versions of the system: 4.7 and 5.0. The 4.7 is still the production release, so the link above is for 4.7. But if you want, you could also install 5.0, but be sure to read this before.

Good Luck!