I was wondering if this would be viable: I want to download a linux distribution. However, I am on a dial-up connection. So this wouldn't be a good idea. I can, however get to a public computer that has a broadband connection and a zip drive. My question is: Would a zip disk(100 megs) be large enough to hold a bare-bones linux distribution? All I want is the kernel and just enough to use the shell. I still want full functionality, but I guess I can do without Xwindows, gnome and all of that. (I could also download more software and utilities from the internet as needed, that is assuming I find a way to work around this winmodem, or get a new modem that would work with linux) I've had linux(redhat and mandrake) installed on my system before(dual boot with win98) and it worked out okay. But I used a CD in those cases. I would install them again, however, they are both out of date now. Anyway, would what I described be viable? Thanks Jack

I've heard that with Gentoo Linux, you can download a barebone system (less than 100 MB) and install it. After installing, it will download more stuff over the net for you if you want to. However, I would strongly recommand you go to www.cheapbytes.com and purchase a complete copy of RedHat, Mandrake, or whichever distro for a minimum fee, usually less than $10.00!!! If not, send me the money and I will download, burn, and send you a copy of your distro... Lawrence

I went to cheapbytes.com . I've never heard of them before. Is it legal what they are doing? It would be legal right, because the software is open source. I guess the price does seem pretty good. about six bucks for the software and five for shipping and handling, that just takes it over ten bucks. Have you had much experience with that site?

Basically, they just download, burn it, and charge you for the time and the media. It is perfectly legal. And yes, I did buy something from them before and didn't have any problem with them at all. I recommand you either find a friend who has a fast internet connection to download those ISO files or get it from them. Otherwise, it would take now until the end of time to download those ISO files with your modem... Lawrence

I'll probably end up going through them then. But what I don't understand.... With prices so much lower than the distributor, why would anyone buy directly from the company? For the tech support?

With $39.00, you get a nice professional looking manual and 30 days tech support!!! Or you can pay $10.00 for the CDs and print the manual out yourself and get the tech support here :) Lawrence

You definitely have a point. I just can't help but wonder how they stay in business...