I have installed Madrake 9.0, but I now need to compile kernel 2.4.20 to replace my 2.4.19-16 in order for my Alcatel Speed Touch usb modem to work. I' m a newbie, but i managed to figure out how to do this using 'xconfig', but there does have something bothering me. I know that I can use 'menu oldconfig' to keep my actual kernel settings. Can i run 'x config' after that to do the changes i need to make? My first try with 'x config' did a compilation that went smoothly, but i couldnot boot cuz 'EBGA (something) was too big'. After a re-install and a second attempt, my FAT32 drives we not mounted. 3rd attempt, my mouse did not move. Somehow, i keep messing with the settingsand blowing up my system. I know that Linux is a gr8 learning tool, but if someone could help me to compile the new kernel with "my actual settings + a few changes" that would be gr8. The only reason i'm sticking to Winblows is that i do not have internet connection under Linux. And just like a Porsche without engine, my Linux without internet is lovely but dull. Pls, help me outta the "Gates' Windows".

can't remember exactly, but I think you want to copy /boot/config to somewhere under /usr/src/linux before you do a "make xconfig". This should keep your current settings, allowing you to make changes with a graphical interface. Otherwise, just do a "make oldconfig" and keep all the settings the same, just changing the ones you need to, although it doesn't have a pretty graphical interface and takes longer to go through all the choices.