Hi all,
I downloaded Mandrake 10.0 Official isos two weeks via the Bit torrent network. I was using the bad and dirty windoze OS then. I burned the isos using a program called Alcohol 120%.

I didn't check the Isos or the burned CDs against the md5 key and installed Mandrake.

It all went well, Mandrake Setup didn't show any sign of errors whatsoever but i started having problems soon afterwords when i tried to compile a program from source, i got allot of errors saying that i don't have the necessary programs and libraries to compile the source. I also had problems with RPMS and basically couldn't install any and even if i did they would not be able to create a link at the Applications Menu. I started the Mandrake Package manager and noticed that most of the software was not installed, when i checked everything i needed and tried to install it from within linux i got a read error or a hash failed error (can't remember) when i put the CDs in.

I checked the isos and CDs with md5sum and all hashes failed (they all did not match)!!!

Anyway, it is clear that the Mandrake Install Program does not show any signs if it fails to install a certain package and that's why its "VERY IMPORTANT TO CHECK THE MD5" especially if you're downloading using Bit Torrent network or your connection is not the best in the world and you frequently have disconnection problems.

After successfully downloading the Official ISOs for the download edition (i'm so glad they finally released them!) I checked the md5 of the isos and burned CDs and it was a success in both ways. The install went flawless and everything i wanted to install is there after the installation process finished.

Funny, this problem happened on my first experience ever with a linux OS. I wrote a huge rant criticizing Linux in this site and i have to say after solving this thing, i'v never been happier with an OS as i have been with Mandrake Linux. Way to go Linux! I'm officially 100% M$ free

Eagle Y