Installing Linux (Tough Article)

Initially, a note about the reinstalments. With Debian, it is very rare to have to reinstall its system completely. The most common cause is undoubtedly a mechanical failure of the hard drive.

Many operating systems require a complete installation when critical failures occur or when one makes an update of the system. And even if it is not necessary to entirely remake an installation, the programs which you use must be reinstalled to function correctly.

With Debian GNU/Linux, it is much more probable than your OS can be repaired when the things turn badly, and not replaced. The updates never require a complete installation; you can always do them starting from the existing system. The programs are almost always compatible with the successive versions of the system. When the new version of a program requires other software, the system of packing makes so that all the software requirements are listed and installed. Many efforts were deployed to avoid the need for a reinstalment: it is the last option! And the fitter is not designed to make an installation on an existing system.

Here the stages which compose the process of installation:

To safeguard all the data or documents of the hard drive on which the installation will be made;
To gather information concerning the computer, as well as documentation necessary;
To prepare free space on the hard drive;
To download the fitter and all pilots necessary to the computer (when one does not use the cédéroms Debian);

To prepare the bands, the diskettes or keys USB for starting, or to install the files of starting - the users of the cédéroms Debian can start from one of the cédéroms;
To start the fitter;
To choose a language;
To set up connection Ethernet network, if necessary;
To create and assemble the partitions on which Debian will be installed;
To look at the automatic process of remote loading/installation/basic system requirements;
To install a bootstrap routine which can start Debian GNU/Linux or another system;
To charge the new system for the first time and to make the first adjustments;
To install at will other software (tasks or packages).
To know the packages which are implied in each stage can help with the resolution of the problems which can occur during the installation. Here main actors of this part:

The Debian fitter is the principal subject of this handbook. He detects the material and charges the pilots necessary, he sets up network connection with dhcp-customer and he installs the packages of the basic system with debootstrap. There are many other minor actors, but the Debian fitter finished his task when you install for the first time the new system.

By charging the new system, bases-config additions the users, regulates the time zone with tzsetup and sets up the system of installation of the packages, with apt-setup. He then proposes to launch tasksel which can install sets of themes units of packages, or aptitude which makes it possible to choose the packages individually.

When the work of the fitter is completed, before the first loading of the system, you have only one minimal system with line of order. The graphical interface which posts windows on your screen is installed only if you asked it with tasksel or aptitude. Its installation is optional because much of Debian systems are waiters which do not need really an graphical interface to be operational.

The fitter does not take charges system X with it. His installation and the dependent problems are not spring of this handbook.