| Linux requires certain hardware resources. Different Linux distributions have different requirements. Some Linux distributions were developed specifically to be installed in a very small space or on old or unusual computers. However, this book provides information for complete Linux distributions, including desktops and general applications, such as office or graphics applications. Therefore, the hardware considerations discussed in this section refer to complete Linux distributions, such as Fedora, Mandrake, and SuSE. General requirements are as follows: Computer type: Pentium class computer equivalent to Pentium II with a speed of 400MHz or better. Memory: The memory requirements suggested by Fedora are a minimum of 192MB with 256MB recommended. SuSE gives 128MB as the minimum with 256MB recommended. Mandrake gives 64MB as the minimum, with 128MB or more recommended. Hard disk space: As with most software, most Linux distributions get larger as they improve and add features. For instance, Mandrake 9.2 requires 100MB for a minimum installation, with 1GB recommended; whereas Mandrake 10 requires 500MB, with 1GB recommended. It's best to check the Web site for the hard disk requirements of the Linux distribution and version you want to install. The number and type of packages is also a consideration. A minimum installation may not include space for all the packages you need. In fact, some minimal installations are so stripped down that they are barely usable. Even a usable installation can provide different package sets with installation. For instance, Fedora allows you to select an installation type during the install process. The Personal Desktop type installs fewer packages than the Workstation type. Thus, Personal Desktop requires 2.3GB, whereas Workstation requires 3GB. For most purposes, you should try to allow at least 2GB if possible. In addition, you need to include some extra space in your installation. You may want to add packages later. You also need room for the data you add. And Linux requires some empty space (5 %) for its own use.
|
