Jon.. in your link to the linux CDs, the very last instruction is:

" In case your computer does not automatically boot from CD/DVD, open the BIOS setup to allow booting from CD or DVD."

Now my upstairs PC runs a linux CD just fine, but this one (downstairs) does not, and nowhere do I see a hint as to HOW I find the bios settings. In 15 years, I have never needed to.

These people can write software, but *I* know how to scan guides, instructions & manuals and perceive what NEEDS to be explained.