New to Linux

[pcspecialist]

Ok, I think that I have somewhat of a problem. I want to install Mandriva on my desktop because I heard that it's the easiest/most user friendly Linux to use. I have a 160GB HD. I have no idea where to start though. Do I have to partiton my hard drive into three partitions like I did with debian or just one partition like windows? I am just totally lost.. can someone PLEASE help me??

Thanks

 

[GameGURU]

When I had mandriva, I only had one partition and I let LILO do the booting.

 

[pcspecialist]

How do I get LILO? I'm downloading the DVD ISO though....

 

[macdude425]

LILO installs itself during the install for Mandriva.

 

[GameGURU]

Well, Lilo is a boot load used to boot the OS. You can add windows in there to do a dual boot by saving to the MBR. It's kinda risky because it could damage the windows Master Boot Record.

Anyways, when installing, it should ask for the partiton. If you already have Linux, then say use existing partitions.

Or, you can resize your windows partition, and add just one big one for Linux.

It will warn you that you don't have a swap partition (which I didn't have) but it should work.

 

[pcspecialist]

Ok, so how would I boot up 2 OS's though without damaging Windows..

 

[Vormund]

Just install LILO when it prompts you during the install--he was saying it's possible to mess up the MBR, because it will be editing it, but all should be fine.

 

[GameGURU]

Yeah, when you get the prompt to install LILO, choose to install it to the MBR (Master Boot Record).

 

[pcspecialist]

Oh ok. Now, is it harder to use than Debian or no? I had debian before and I didn't like it too much. I had to do a lot of configuring to change the resultion to 1280x1024. Do I have to do that with this distro too?

 

[GameGURU]

Umm I am not sure. I don't think so but I really can't tell you sorry

I have to do that in Slackware, it really is easy to configure things...