Learning Red Hat Linux

Chapter 2. Preparing to Install Linux

This chapter presents information you need to know and tasks you need to perform before installing Linux. It helps you make certain that your IBM-compatible PC meets the minimum hardware requirements for Linux. It shows you how to document your system configuration so that you can respond to questions presented by the Linux install procedure. It also describes the three types of Red Hat Linux installations (for most new users of Linux, the workstation installation type is the most appropriate). Finally, it shows you how to prepare your hard disk for Linux.

Minimum Hardware Requirements

Linux supports a wide range of PC hardware; but not even Linux supports every known device and system. Your PC must meet certain minimum requirements in order to run Linux. The following sections present these minimum requirements; however, for the latest and most complete information, you should check Red Hat’s web site at http://www.redhat.com/hardware/. Red Hat’s web site will also help you determine whether Linux supports all the devices installed in your system.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Linux does not support the Intel 286 and earlier processors. However, it fully supports the Intel 80386, 80486, Pentium, Pentium Pro, Pentium II, and Pentium III processors. Nevertheless, some users feel that their 80386 Linux systems respond sluggishly, particularly when running X. So, if you want optimum performance, you should install Linux on a PC having an ...