Installing Linux; system now running WinXP
 

Hello,

I am trying to install Mandrake onto my system which is currently running on winxp. Being completely new to this, I thought I should partition using partition magic and bootmagic to create another partition for Linux as I still want to keep winxp running for a while.

Problem is, I can't seem to even get the partition completed on winxp. So now I am wondering if the Mandrake installation will automatically create partitions, etc... so that I can install it on the system and still keep my winxp?

I would want to be able to choose which OS to use on bootup (which was why I tried out bootmagic, but cant get it to work yet).

Any ideas? I am very new to Linux and reading here still makes me confused as I don't really know what is being discussed here.... any help would be great.

Thanks.
:newbie:

Mandrake should help you resize your XP partition. (I find SuSE easier, but that is a personal point!) You don't need all the tools you mentioned, but what is truly needed is for you to TOTALLY backup whatever is important to you in your XP partition and only then proceed with Mandrake Install. Also check Mandrakes website or the net OR the CD itself (most likely!) for an installation guide. You can check that by putting the CD in when you have XP up. That way you will feel prepared as the different screens come up asking you questions. You also (of course) need to set your bios to boot off the CD first when you are ready to install. Best wishes!

S.

"But wait, Penguinhead, there is more!"

Thanks! I can't wait to start the process and leave win behind for good after I have completed my transistion over to Linux.

Thanks again!:D

One other thing... A wonderful way to learn about Linux is to get a Knoppix CD (it can be downloaded online somewhere and burned). The neat thing about Knoppix is it boots and runs completely off the CD and does NOT write to your HDD unless you set it up especially. Therefore, you've got LOTS of room for mistookz oops, mistakes! When I am learning a new command or something, I put in the Knoppix disk, boot er up, bring up a console, and learn! It's also a great way to learn about the KDE desktop and some of the more popular programs. ENJOY!
S.