scrapping W2K and starting fresh w/ Linux?

[socsouth]

I currently have a desktop computer running W2K. I have tried the dual boot setup with no success. I would like to scrap my entire setup and install a version of Linux yet to be determined.

Can anyone point me in the direction of obtaining step by step instructions on how to totally wipe my 80G hard drive and start fresh with Linux? I have seen many "installation guides" out there that leave a lot to be desired. I'm looking for simple how to that doesn't require massive amounts of configuration.

Any suggestions?

Thanks,
T

[gehidore]

if you want to "wipe" then entire drive you can use the partition utility that comes with what ever distro you choose

you can try xosl for dual booting (it works really well for beginners)

xosl ( http://www.ranish.com/)

[happybunny]

i have loaded RH, Mandrake, SUSE, and slackware (unsuccessfully so far).

Except for slack, the install is really next, next, next.

during the partitioning you are asked to setup the drives. Repartitioning and formating will get rid of any exciting data.

[gehidore]

i would recomend using the slackware cd and cfdisk /dev/hd* to partition your drive.

of course replace * with the drive letter hda being the first drive

to create swap use mkswap /dev/hd** then swapon /dev/hd**

after you partition type setup then proceed with the install.

[phil81]

I often set up 2 systems and I always recommend using 2 drives its much safer and easier to get your system up again after a problem with the mbr..

you can also partition your drive with fdisk

But you can also try this ( with Mandrake )
boot on the linux cd
and when you come to the instal part where it asks you to choose the partitions

take your time play around with the advanced mode and you will see that you can do any thing in there including setting up a
FAT partition ... choose say 1/3 of you drive .

then after that set up linux with a basic install on the rest of the drive it will only take 20 mins or so .

when you have linux running rebboot on the win2k CD install it on the fat partition you created.

Then : I know it sounds tedious but its a good way to understand what is going on and it works ...

reboot on the linux cd and do your complet set up on the rest of the drive

you will have your duel boot sytem on one drive

have fun