I have an extra computer and want to use it to learn Linux. How can I install just the basics of linux? I have slack 11 on cd, Do I just not install all the X stuff? Or should I start off with a distro like Linux from scratch?
Thank You.

If you really want to know Linux ... then a distribution that forces you to manually setup configuration files or build from source will definitely make you learn the operating system.

I use Gentoo

Most distributions allow you to install a minimal system but they tend to automate the creation of the configuration files.

I dont mind the automated config files. I can always mod them, that way I can install stuff to see how it actually is done for future reference.

Gentoo, arch, debian net install with just the base system ... any of these might do what you want, and there are likely others I'm not familiar with (I've done those three myself). LFS is also a good idea if you have the time and dedication.

I've never tried a base system install of slack, but maybe that would be good as well.

Are you asking how to install a simple text mode Linux? Is there a concern about the size of the install?
If the size of the install is not a big issue, doing a default install of Slackware and reading the Slackware book as you check it out is a good way to go.

Yes. But doesnt a default slack install also install X and games and that stuff?

Yeah, but he is saying just do the default if there is no real pressing need not too.

Besides, everybody likes games, right?

You can choose what you install. Just don't install "full" if you don't want it all. Slack is likely a good choice, now that I think about it -- it's definitely a classic.

Ok, Ill use the slack disks I have. One more question What is the difference in the base linux installs of different distros, for instance whats the difference between slack and linux from scratch base install?

Different administration tools, different package managers. Even text mode has software you may or may not wish to install. Since you seem to be trying to learn I have suggested exploring the distribution you are familar with. This is usually the best option. With a full install (including X) of any distribution you can do a "CTRL-ALT-F1" to drop into a pure text mode, or just open up a GUI terminal and be able to issue the same commands while having access to other familar tools such as a GUI browser to search for infomation on the web and this forum.
I know what text mode programs as well as GUI programs I like to use and I use them both.

Just look around on the net and compare them if you like -- for example, here's the base for slack 11 ...

One thing I like about Slack is that the config files (particularly the start-up scripts) have such good inline documentation that they almost invite you to play with them. Just make sure to back em up first!

Pat (and the rest of the group) really try to help you understand what the config files are doing, and they (usually) tell you right there, in the the config file, so you don't have to do much poking around for answers.

Best of luck in whatever you decide!

<< No games on my lappie. I'm such a dork, lol

As for the relevant topic, If the system is able to run X (like when I had my Pentium 133 machine, ran Windows 95 for about 5 years and ran Slackware ...7(?) for next 4 years), I can recommend TWM. Not many people realize TWM can be configured to look good and be very user-friendly.

Of course there isn't alot you can't do with just console (there are tons of command-line software, from file managers, web browsers to MSN client, etc etc...

Actually, in Slackware, if you boot to the GUI, only ctrl+alt+f6 will give you a "text only" screen (the cli).

However, if you boot to the cli to begin with, and then start x, ctrl+alt+f1 will only give you the booting screen, ending with the "starting session manager" notice. ctrl+alt+ (f2-f6) will give you a cli screen, while f7-f9 are generally reserved for XWindows. (Generally...)

Of course, if you don't use XWindows at all, this point is moot. All screens (f1 thru f9) will all be cli. And since Slackware defaults to a cli...

I believe that you cannot go wrong with using Slackware to learn from. During the install, you choose what 'series' of packages to install, then, either choose 'full', and not interact with it, or choose 'expert' and choose EVERY package in the series.

As far as most other distros go, you don't have that choice. Or the extreme stability of Slackware...IMNHO

Happy Slacking...

Well I tried to install just the base but during the install it does not give an option, just says install everything or choose from a list of packages and such. I have no idea what to not chose and what to choose so I guess I will use pkgtool and uninstall all the stuff I dont want/need.