I would like a slim basic Linux within which to run VMWARE Workstation - I then intend to run several linux's freeBSD and even some microsoft op systems. Would DSL be suitable as the host for vmware W/S? or perhaps another? :) Thanks

Pretty much any distro is good for vmware. Since you're after a minimal/slim distro I'd agree that DSL is a fine choice, another good choice is to do a *minimal* Debian install. A quick guide for installing Debian and then VMWare on top is here: http://robwhitehouse.com/virtualisation/how-to-install-a-linux-operating-system-for-maximising-vmware-resources/ It's a bit dated, so ignore the versions it mentions, there'll be newer ones out. I hope this helps you out, let us know if you need some more help / how it turns out. Penguin

Thanks penguin :)

You're welcome. Let me know how it turns out. Penguin