Linux Help

Theme97 · Post by **Theme97** » Mon Jan 30, 2006 2:23 am

I'm not so sure if this fits here, but it seemed like the best place to put it.

I just downloaded Linux, but before installing, I want to ask a few questions.

1. If I install Linux, do I boot from a CD or does it replace Windows?
2. If I install Linux, will all my data in Windows disappear?
3. If I..., will Windows still be there?
4. How much space do I need to save for Linux?

Thanks.

kahcepb[RU] · Post by **kahcepb[RU]** » Mon Jan 30, 2006 3:49 am

1. it depends
2. it depends
3. it depends
4. see above

Anytime.

Can you PLEASE clarify your needs? Thanks.

Theme97 · Post by **Theme97** » Mon Jan 30, 2006 3:52 am

Depends on what? I have no clue.

1. If I install Linux, do I boot from a CD or does it totally replace Windows and just boots directly to Linux without the CD?
2. If I install Linux, will all my data in Windows disappear, like games, text files, random pieces of junk...?
3. If I install Linux, will I still be able to access/use Windows?
4. How much space do I need to save to install Linux?

That's the best way I can put it o.O

kahcepb[RU] · Post by **kahcepb[RU]** » Mon Jan 30, 2006 4:12 am

Heh, sorry. I was (a bit) rude.

1. It will replace Windows if you say it to do so. If this is not what do you need, use dual-boot (boot loader installed onto MBR can boot OS you choose).

2. It should not. Just read carefully installer messages and install linux onto free partition(s) leaving Windows intact.

3. Sure. (see 2.)

4. It depends

. Before starting install process free some unpartitioned space (you have Partitionmagic installed, don't you? Use Install Other OS wizard). Space requirements can be found at your distro-of-choice homepage.

Peace.

Theme97 · Post by **Theme97** » Mon Jan 30, 2006 4:31 am

Err... thanks!
I guess I'll just convert this PC into a Linux when I get my new PC.
Again, thanks!

JPT · Post by **JPT** » Mon Jan 30, 2006 12:48 pm

Which distribution are you goint to use ?

I play with Debian, Kubuntu and Suse and i still need a good graphic modul.

loophole · Post by **loophole** » Mon Jan 30, 2006 5:18 pm

When someone says "Linux", they are referring to the kernel.

You actually install a "distribution" (redhat, debian, slackware, gentoo, etc.), you can get distributions that run of a CD, that co-exist with your windows install or that you have to install on their own partition. Some distributions are relatively easy to install, some are more difficult.

So to repeat what kahcepb[RU] said, "it depends"

This isn't something you should just jump in to without doing a lot of research.

A Meteorite · Post by **A Meteorite** » Mon Jan 30, 2006 8:36 pm

Just for your info there is a good distro that will recognize Windows and not overwrite it in the installer by default (I've used it myself), but you first need either a) a second hard drive or b) unpartitioned disk space. I consider a second hard drive easiest and less risky. If you overwrite Windows you will lose everything (data and OS).

So here's the distro: OpenSuSE ( opensuse.org )

Disclaimer: Do NOT jump into this if you are not sure what you are doing. If for some reason you do a step wrong (or right) and lose everything or your computer blows up it's not my fault.

Theme97 · Post by **Theme97** » Tue Jan 31, 2006 12:07 am

Well, lucky me, I coincidentally already have SuSE on my 5 disks.
Again, I will turn this PC into Linux when I get my new computer.
During this time I will make sure I have back-ups and do more research.
Thanks o.O