[Ragesim]

So, I have downloaded Linux Mint on my external hard drive, and needed help with the installation of it. If this shows interest, I will give more information.

[Ragesim]

Actually, heres more information. I want to install it, but I am not sure what setting to install it with.

[Elvandil]

What do you mean by "setting"?

Have you made a CD of the iso file?

[Ragesim]

Oops. By setting I mean Installation Type. I got so far as there, and do not know what do next.

What do I need a CD for?

[Elvandil]

OK. Let's start at the beginning.

What make and model of machine do you have now? Is there an operating system on it?

Was it an iso file that you downloaded (an iso is a CD image)?

What have you done so far?

[arochester]

Look here: "Chapter 5: Installing Linux" - http://www.linuxnewbieguide.org/cont...stalling-linux

(A bit old, but still good)

[chatterjee]

Installation of Linux Mint is perhaps the easiest one!! You can either choose a CD or use a software like Unetbootin(for Linux) to put the iso file on a USB drive and install the OS further from it.No matter what you make CD/DVD or USB you have to boot with it and follow the onscreen instructions.As Elvandil told , the thing depends on the OSes you have already installed and also the partitions of HDD(internal).If you have a dedicated partition,the task is simple.Just select the partition and install it.

[randysvh]

Doing an Install actually is pretty easy. The most complicated portion is when you get to the partitioning and adjusting the size of your existing partition to make space for Linux Mint. After you have made the DVD from the ISO file you downloaded, you can then boot your system with the DVD and start your install.

Personally i use the gparted partitioning software before i do the install to adjust and make the partitions for the Linux. The biggest problem today is with many Major brand systems they now create 4 primary partitions which eliminates any ability to make changes without deleting a partition first and deciding which one is ok to do that with or how to get around that issue is the biggest issue. The other option is install your Mint in Windows Virtual PC which then requires no special Partitioning knowledge or HD informational skills. If you are able to create the Extended partition, you can then create three logical partitions 1. for the OS or the / partition. 2. for the SWAP which should be 2-3 times the size of your existing memory. 3. for the HOME or Data directory or /home area of the system which contains all of your user files. The OS section can be as small as 8gb, but i usually make 20gb for the OS and the HOME area is what is ever left over for your personal files.

The rest is easy as the copy process continues from that point on and then completes.

Good Luck.