Fedora Core 4 is a very modern Linux operating system with a powerful graphical user interface (GUI) and extensive networking and server capabilities. Although Linux operating systems are modular enough to be run on very minimal or very old computers, such feats are generally better left to experts. If you are new to Linux, you should ensure that your computer meets the list of suggested system requirements for Fedora Core 4, as listed in Table 1.1. Table 1.1. Suggested Requirements for Running Fedora Core 4Hardware Item | Suggested System Requirement |
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CPU (processor) | Pentium II, Duron, Athlon, or similar processor running at 300MHz (0.3GHz) or faster. Processors slower than 300MHz might feel sluggish. 256MB (131,072KB) or more is required if you plan to use the Linux desktop. Server users who do not install the Linux desktop might be able to get by with 128MB, but less memory availability can incur performance penalties. | Hard drive space | 4GB (4,000MB) or more of free disk space is the comfortable minimum for standard installations of the type covered in this book. Ideally, at least 610GB (6,00010,000MB) of disk space should be available for serious users. | Ethernet or modem | Internet access is really a necessity for the serious Linux user. Most common Ethernet and wireless hardware is supported by Linux, but modems are much more problematic. If you find that your communication hardware will not function after you install Linux, check with the manufacturer for Linux compatibility. If your hardware isn't compatible with Fedora Core, you will need to replace it. |
If your hardware inventory falls short in one or several areas when compared against this list of suggested requirements, as a beginner, you should give serious consideration to upgrading or replacing the computer system in question before installing Linux. |