What software would be recommend?

[JAZZCNC]

Linux is a real time operating system so when you install Linux CNC it will Install the real time operating system it requires.
In it's basic form then yes it requires a parallel port. But don't confuse for instance with Mach3 or windows parallel port because they have a layers software in between which makes them a buffered system so not real time. Linux and Linux CNC doesn't have these restrictions so is true real time system.

However you can if you want buy PCI cards that install into the PC slots. These are called Mesa cards and allow massive amounts of I/O and upgrade features, including Ethernet connection amongst many others. But to be fair this is not an area I'd point a new user because their will be very steep learning curve involved.
If you can find a PC with parallel port then Linux CNC is good cheap option for simple machine with limited I/O needs that new user could manage with little hand holding via Linux forum.

Clives S on this forum is the Man you want to ask. He's the Linux Guru around here..