Putting the boot in.(comparing Linux and Microsoft Windows)

Byline: Barry Shilliday

Putting the boot in

Linux partitions explained, and find out how to dual-boot with Windows

For most people new to Linux, their biggest concern will undoubtedly be how to install it alongside Windows. Most people will understandably want to dip their toes in before wiping out what they're accustomed to, and many may still need to use specific Windows applications even if they do decide to switch to Linux full time.

Thanks to what began with the Knoppix distribution (www.knoppix.com), many Linux distributions can boot directly from CD or DVD, allowing users to try things out before committing in any way. These work entirely from CD and don't need to modify the hard drive at all.

Although things are considerably easier than they were a few years ago, when it comes to Linux installation it's a good idea to understand a few concepts about dual-booting if you want to go down that route. Installation programs are generally good enough, but a basic understanding is helpful to ensure you know what you are doing.

If you don't need to dual-boot with Windows and are happy to wipe the hard drive clean, then you'll find that a Linux installation is no more difficult than a Windows one. If anything it's actually easier, especially as driver downloads are generally not needed at all.