Chapter 2: Linux Installation and Initial Configuration

Overview

Installation has always been the most difficult part of all Linux distributions. I remember when installation had to be performed by using several diskettes, following arcane instructions, or typing Linux console commands.

Another difficult task is partitioning disks. Linux requires at least two partitions: the root partition and the swap file partition. Many people are apprehensive of tinkering with disk partitioning, especially if the disk already contains information on it. This apprehension is fully justified, because there is always a chance of losing the information if the instructions are not followed correctly or if the power is lost and the computer is not powered from an uninterruptible power supply (UPS).

During the installation process, any operating system must detect the hardware devices installed, install the necessary drivers, and make other preparations necessary for the devices to function properly. Only about 7 years ago, the list of the supported devices could be read through in a couple of minutes, because many device manufacturers ignored Linux and did not provide their devices with Linux drivers. Moreover, they did not provide the information about their devices that would allow third parties to write drivers for them. Nowadays, reading through the device list will take days, because the penguin (an emblem of Linux) is recognized by all important computer device manufacturers. The system now determines devices rapidly and without errors, requiring no user involvement in most cases.

Today, the entire installation process is performed practically automatically and is no more complicated than that for other operating systems. This is the reason Microsoft has started to feel apprehensive about Linux and its advances into the home computer market. Now any user, even a beginner, can install the operating system on his or her own. Even though the installation process is easy, I will briefly consider it, giving more attention to its most important moments.

If you already have experience of installing Linux, I still recommend that you read this chapter because you may find some interesting and useful material in it. The main security and efficiency principles are formed starting with the installation stage to be followed and expanded from there.



Hacker Linux Uncovered
Hacker Linux Uncovered
ISBN: 1931769508
EAN: 2147483647
Year: 2004
Pages: 141

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