Is it possible to run Win2k and Linux from the same machine?

[Arkitech]

I'm in the process of learning Unix, its something I've been wanting to do for a while. So today I'm shaking off the procrastination and jumping in with both feet.

I figure the first thing I need to do is at least get a version of Linux running in my machine so that I can practice commands. Can anyone tell me if its possible to run Linux and Win2k on the same machine? If so what would be the best version of Linux to download and start working with?

Finally my last question is what books are recommended for newbies who really want to learn Unix?

I have a couple of old books that I'm currently thumbing through but I figure I should eventually get the most up to date information. Here's what I have I access to right now:

Understanding Unix, Second Edition - Stan Kelly-Bootle - Sybex
Unix in a Nutshell - Daniel Gilly


thanks for any advice

 

[freebsddude]

Redhat, Mandrake for newbies! If you already know Unix well, also consider FreeBSD.

Unix Systems Administration Handbook
Seebass, Hein

Good Luck!

 

[NorthenLove]

<< I'm in the process of learning Unix, its something I've been wanting to do for a while. So today I'm shaking off the procrastination and jumping in with both feet.

I figure the first thing I need to do is at least get a version of Linux running in my machine so that I can practice commands. Can anyone tell me if its possible to run Linux and Win2k on the same machine? If so what would be the best version of Linux to download and start working with?

Finally my last question is what books are recommended for newbies who really want to learn Unix?

I have a couple of old books that I'm currently thumbing through but I figure I should eventually get the most up to date information. Here's what I have I access to right now:

Understanding Unix, Second Edition - Stan Kelly-Bootle - Sybex
Unix in a Nutshell - Daniel Gilly


thanks for any advice >>



Yes you can dual-boot using one drive or two but you are going to need to set aside a partition. You can use Partition Magic to help you do this. Just divide your drive(s) into two seprate partitions. After that install Linux on the secondary partition and dual-boot using a Linux boat loader ( Grub/Lilo ) or boot floppy disk. Also you are okay with the books you have. If you are trying to master the CLI in *NIX then you should not have any real big problems using a book that is old. I have books that are about a few years old and the stuff that they have in them hasn't really gone out of date as far as the CLI is concerned. If you want to get to know the GUI side though you might need a newer book but if you know the CLI then you shouldn't have any problems with the GUI side of Linux anyways to begin with.

 

[Zlash]

Would be a good idea to set aside to smaller partitions in the front of the HD for the boot partitions of each OS. I know linux has to have it's boot partition within the first 1024 cylinders? of the HD, which is somehwere under 4 gigs i think.

 

[AndyHui]

Please read the FAQ: How do I dual boot Win2K and Linux using the Win2K Boot Loader?