Install linux on second hard drive

Top Tip: Can I install Linux on my system?

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Question from baltimoresam "I am intrigued by linux, and i wanted to install red hat 9. I have a windows xp based computer. 1 80gb drive, no partitions with win xp. I have a second hard drive, 40gb, 3 partitions for backups, ghost, etc.

I want to install on an already created ntfs 13gb partition which currently has no programs, but is identified by a drive letter in windows xp.

Help me out here, is this even remotely and easily possible? WHat are the proper steps? "

Answer from Bignate "You can't install linux on a ntfs part. Although there are several options for pre partioning, I have found that leaving the space you intend to install on as unallocated and allowing the distro tools to do the formating/prtitioning for you to be the most painless option. "

Answer from rai "You can go to Disk Management (right-click on the My Computer Icon, then Manage) format the partition as FAT 32 if you like, or just leave as free space and then install there. If you're not familiar with Linux (which by the post I would say not at all) back up any data on the second drive.

Also, when you go to install Linux - make sure that you are installing to correct drive..I won't make any assumptions that your entire system is NTFS. You shouldn't have any real problems and when you get into the Linux install, go through the steps a few times. You can get to the partitioning screen/utility without committing to the format etc. It helps to get more familiar with the install routine which might make you more comfortable as you get to work more with Linux. "

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