I really feel like the best way to go is with BAMT. I do have a Windows rig also though. My Windows (

rig will run for months without needing restarted. What I have found with Windows is you have to use the right driver. I am using 13.1. I tried all different kinds of drivers and once I found 13.1 and got my cards running good I will never change it.
I get 620 KH/s per card (7950's). Runs stable non stop for months if I dont mess with it.
I only have experience with my 7950's but I think each brand card has its own sweet spot between drivers, and config (TC, Intensity, etc).