So I went ahead and purchased the computer I mentioned in this topic as my new unix/sand/test box. Everything works great, but the only thing I need now is some direction as to how to go about a proper Unix install:
1) How do I reformat and partition for ext3?
- I am only accustomed to Window's versions of format and fdisk, how would I perform these tasks for setting up a Unix system?
2) There are so many Unix distros, which should I choose?
- I checked the list of Unix-like distrobutions on wiki and it is virtually endless, I have no idea which is best to use and/or good for testing/experimenting/developing. So far, the big names I've heard recommended are Fedora Core, (K)Ubuntu, OpenSUSE, Slackware, Gentoo, and Debian (as I understand is the basis of the formers) and Red Hat (as I understand is replaced by Fedora). Which is the recommended/preferred one to use for you guys? From hear-say, I understand that Fedora is more all-around, whereas Ubuntu is more geared towards usibility. I do not want a "noob-friendly" or "light" distro, should I go with Fedora then?
3) Is there anything I should be aware of before installing Unix if I plan to dual-boot later?
- After installing Unix, I plan to install windows later and create a dual-boot, is there anything I should know about partitioning/setup that will make this future task more seamless (i.e. should I install Windows before Unix? also how well do NTFS and ext3 mix?)
4) Is there anything else I should know to make things go more smoothly?
- Its been a while since I installed a Windows' OS (win98SE was the last time) and never since a Unix one; is there any "common knowledge" I should know ahead of time?
Thanks for any help.