User's Manual

16 Chapter 1:Steps to Get You Started
WARNING
Installing Red Hat Linux over another installation of Linux (including
Red Hat Linux) does not preserve any information (files or data) from a
prior installation. Make sure you save any important files! To preserve
the current data on your existing system, you should back up your data
and/or consider performing an upgrade instead.
Red Hat Linux provides four different classes, or types, of installations:
Workstation
A workstation installation is most appropriate if you are new to the world of Linux, and would
like to give it a try. A workstation installation will create a system for your home or desktop
use. A graphical, Windows-like environment will be installed.
Server
A server installation is most appropriate for you if you would like your system to function as a
Linux-based server, and you do not want to heavily customize your system configuration.
Custom
A custom installation allows you the greatest flexibility during your installation. You choose
your boot loader, which packages you want, and more. Custom installations are most appropri-
ate for those users more familiar with Red Hat Linux installations and for those afraid of losing
complete flexibility.
Upgrade
If you already have a version of Red Hat Linux running on your system and you want to quickly
update to the latest packages and kernel version, then an upgrade is most appropriate for you.
These classes give you the option of simplifying the installation process (with some potential for loss
of configuration flexibility), or retaining flexibility with a slightly more complex installation process.
Next, take a detailed look at each class, so you can see which one is right for you.
1.4.1 Workstation Installations
Most suitable for new users, the workstation installation will install your choice of the GNOME or
KDE desktop environments, or both, and the X Window System (the graphical environment).
Below are the minimum recommended disk space requirements for a workstation installation where
only one language (such as English) will be installed.