To completely uninstall Windows XP and install Linux, the first step is to download a Linux distribution, with Ubuntu being a popular recommendation for beginners. After downloading, burn the ISO file to a CD or DVD, ensuring that the image is properly burned, not just the file itself. Adjust the BIOS settings to boot from the CD, which will allow the Linux installer to run. During installation, there will be an option to format the hard drive, effectively wiping Windows XP and installing Linux.For those considering different Linux distributions, Ubuntu is frequently praised for its user-friendliness, while Mandriva is noted for its graphical interface and suitability for newcomers. Users have shared experiences with various distributions, including Fedora and Gentoo, but Ubuntu remains a top choice due to its popularity and support.If dual-booting with Windows, it's important to partition the drive correctly, allocating space for both operating systems. However, if the goal is to solely run Linux, the installer will handle the formatting and installation process.