im starting to think about using .deb files on my n900, the gimp and open office seem like a good place to start (i.e. their the only programs i know of), but before i venture into this unknown territory i was hoping for a few pointers, i did a google search into it and found a zillion posts about red pill mode and nothing else and a search of these forums gave pretty much the same results, so if anyone is in the know..... & the mood please answer these questions....

1/ can any .deb file be installed on the n900 or are their specifics?
2/ is there a good website around that lists good .deb software - all i have found is gibberish
3/ any recommendations to good deb programs that would fit the n900
4/ what would be the best/safest route to installing and managing .deb installs?? terminal or forcing the app manager to take over
5/ if i find some linux software i like what do i need to look out for, to determine if it will run on my n900??
6/ if i fubar my n900 doing this whats the best recovery method???

any information would be great...

cheers....