A Beginners Guide to Slackware

Slackware maybe what this flavor of Linux is called, but you can't be a slacker if you want to install Slackware. Do not be afraid. If you have even some basic skills you can install Slackware. Well, with the help of this tutorial that is. Don’t despair, soon you will be enjoying your Slackware.

What is Linux?

Linux is a family of operating systems that are all based on the Linux kernel, originally written in 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Many different types, sometimes called flavors, of Linux have been created by developers from all over the world.

What is Slackware?

Slackware is actually the oldest form of Linux that you can get your hands on. It is Linux as its creator designed it.

You will need the following.

1. A computer to install the operating system on.

2. The Slackware DVD

3. A virtualization product like VMware Player or Server.

1. Place you Slackware disk in the DVD-ROM tray.
2. Open your VMware Player and open the file named Slackware.vmx.
3. Tap the “Escape” button in order to get into the BIOS setup. Select the choice labeled CD-ROM Drive. Then tap “Enter” to boot from the CD.
4. You will be asked to choose a kernel type. The best option for your system should be pre-selected so tap “Enter”.
5. Tap “Enter” again, when you are asked about your keyboard set up, unless you have a non-standard setup.
6. Choose the partition that you have set up to install the operating system to, if you do not know how to do this you can find out here ( http://www.brighthub.com/computing/windows-platform/articles/20369.aspx ) Also create a swap partition.
7. When asked for conformation, tell the system Yes.
8. You should see a blue set up screen. Choose the ADDSWAP option and tap “Enter”.
9. When asked about the swap partition choose “Yes” then “Enter”.
10. Select “Yes” when asked to choose for a bad block. Then “OK” once this is done.
11. When asked if you want to format the root partition choose “Format” and tap “Enter”.
12. Choose the “ext3” file system.
13. When asked about density choose the first option.
14. Now choose your non-swap partition and mount it as home by putting /home in the box that will appear after you select it.
15. Now choose “Install from CD/DVD” then “Auto” and “Full”.
16. When asked about the kernel, choose the “CD rom” option. A list will appear, and the best option will already be chosen. Just click “Ok”.
17. Skip making the boot disk and your install should be complete.

Now you can take some time to get to know your new Slackware install. It may ask if you want to set up for a modem. Yes, this is for a dial up modem. Since so few people have them, we are going to skip those instructions.