I have been trying to install DSL on a Dell Inspiron 2100 laptop. I am using this guide damnsmalllinux.org/network-install.html because I dont have a CDROM in the laptop.

I get to the part where I have to format the partitions. the first command works fine: mke2fs /dev/hda1
but the second command: mke2fs /dev/hda2 fails with this error:

Not enough space to build the proposed filesystem while setting up superblock

I am using a 20gb hard drive, and I have tried many different partition sizes for both partitions. two 8gb, two 4gb, two 2gb and a few others.

Im pretty much lost at this point...

You're very much lost my friend, this is the Debian forum! We only discuss Debian linux on this particular room. I'm going to report this thread so that the moderators can move it to a better location, so you can get the help you're looking for.

Peace,
JimBass

Moved: This thread is more suitable in our DamnSmallLinux forum and has been moved accordingly to help your thread/question get the exposure it deserves.