Partition, Fresh install

[topazsag]

OK so I am a total Newbie to all of this, I have a computer with Windows XP on it, well actually it's my son's computer and he's downloaded so much crap, viruses, etc. that it no longer starts up. It needs to be completely reformatted but I can't find my Windows XP disk so I was hoping to put Linux on as the OS. If I'm going to create a partition it will probably have to be from DOS mode because as I said, it crashes. Or will I be able to boot up from the Ubuntu disk? I realize my questions are probably way out in left field because I don't have a clue, please help!:confused::confused:

[albinootje]

If you want to try ubuntu on it, download an iso-image here :
http://releases.ubuntu.com/8.04/
ubuntu-8.04.1-desktop-i386.iso would be a good choice.

After downloading the iso image, burn it following these instructions :
https://help.ubuntu.com/community/BurningIsoHowto

The documentation here could be useful after the installation :
https://help.ubuntu.com/8.04/index.html

[kojo]

Good advice, although why not use 8.10, intrepid.

Yes you can partition the hard drive with the install cd. It it a live cd which means you can boot linux without changing your system. This is helpful for file recovery before you wipe the drive. Just boot up your computer with the cd and watch the beauty unfold.

[Nekhelesh]

You have taken the right decision in installing ubuntu in your son's computer. First of all linux is free, has no viruses or other spyware. And you can use Wine ( A simulation Program ) to run your windows applications.

You can post your questions if you had any problems in installing ubuntu which I have doubt you would have.