I like to try Suse. I want to install it by ftp. I just want to know whether we can avoided install big desktop like kde or gnome when installing suse by ftp. Because I want to make the ftp installation as fast as possible. You can do nothing when installation is working. Then after the installation is finished, I will download and install the big desktop like kde or gnome while I am working with my Suse. I just want xfce desktop for first time.

Is that possible??? with Gentoo or Debian, it is possible.

sure, you can select to install a "minimum system" during the initial install, get a basic system running, and then just add packages later as you need them.

You can.... but if you're sure you're going to install them eventually anyway, I highly suggest doing it upon installation of the OS... its cleaner, and a whole lot less hassle, in my opinion (I would suggest installing at least one desktop environment or window manager upon installation of the OS... then you can download and install others later).

I have had problems with SUSE 9.2's FTP installation. I have machines that are not DVD capable, and the FTP install wouldn't take. I ended up downloading base packages and doing a hard drive install using the mini ISO.

My plan since KDE and Gnome are very big..... : upon installation, I think I just want to install xfce. Then after I got working suse with xfce desktop, I will download and install KDE or Gnome while I am working..... But is xfce included in suse official package?????

minimum system = working suse without X??????

xfce is available from the FTP installation, there should also be a minimal system with X11 in the package selections.