Linux

[Mika]

I need your help guys! I have just burned the 2 cds of the Red Hat 7.2 .I have a hard disk 8.4 GB with Win 98 SE installed, and I want to add RedHat and create a dualBoot system. Now my questions. What I have to do to prepare the hard disk? I have to create the Linux partitions before the linux installation or these will be created with the installation? How much space I have to use for the Linux installation (server)? That's all for now, thanks!

[Rick]

Before you start, defrag your HD to move all of the data into one area on the disk. Then, put the linux CD into your CD drive and boot directly from it. (Make sure your computer is capable of booting from a CD-ROM, otherwise you'll have to make an install boot floppy)
Most linux distributions come with a utility that will create a linux partition for you using your existing free space, which is why it's important to defrag before you start.
Exactly how much disk space you need depends on how much of the linux bundled software you want to install, but I would suggest you set aside at least 1.5 gigs. Using linux as just a server doesn't need as much space as a desktop setup, but you'll still need some storage space for your data. Fortunately, linux is able to see windows partitions on your HD, and you can also save data there. Windows, on the other hand, refuses to acknowledge that the linux partition exists at all.
During the installation, linux will find the windows files, and automatically set up the boot sector of your HD to enable a dual boot.

[niv]

Do NOT install GRUB. It will screw up your MBR and your copy of windows will be lost, at least that's what happened on my spare machine that was running WinNT. Use LILO, and there's a special kernel option that you're supposed to tack on. I guess it depends on what family of Windows you're using, I'll ask my friend about it.

[add]
There's no need for parition programs like Parition Magic or anything like that, there's a built-in one that works faster and better. :)

[Mika]

Thanks guys. I didn't understand though how to select LILO and not the other one. It will be an option that I will have to select during the installation?

[niv]

It'll be during installation, and this will allow the dual boot.

[Mika]

Thanks again!!!!!!!