Chapter 3. GUI Installation of Red Hat Linux
This chapter explains how to install Red Hat Linux from the CD-ROM using the graphical, mouse-based installation program. If you need text mode installation instructions, refer to the Installation Via the Text Mode chapter in the Official Red Hat Linux Reference Guide.
The Installation Program User Interface
If you've used a graphical user interface (GUI) before, you'll be familiar with this process. If not, simply use your mouse to navigate the screens, "click" buttons, or enter text in text fields. You can also navigate through the installation using keystrokes. The Tab key moves between fields. The Enter key (on the Next button) and the F12 key will advance to the next screen.
 | Stopping the Installation Program |
|---|---|
To stop the installation program, simply reboot your machine and eject the CD-ROM and/or boot image diskette. You can safely cancel the installation at any point before the About to Install screen (see the section called Preparing to Install Packages). |
A Note about Virtual Consoles
The Red Hat Linux installation program offers more than the dialog boxes of the installation process. Several different kinds of diagnostic messages are available to you, in addition to providing a method for entering commands from a shell prompt. It presents this information on five virtual consoles, among which you can switch using a single keystroke.
These virtual consoles can be helpful if you encounter a problem while installing Red Hat Linux. Messages displayed on the installation or system consoles can help pinpoint a problem. Please see Table 3-1 for a listing of the virtual consoles, keystrokes to switch to them, and their contents.
Table 3-1. Console, Keystrokes, and Contents
| Console | Keystrokes | Contents |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ctrl-Alt-F1 | installation dialog |
| 2 | Ctrl-Alt-F2 | shell prompt |
| 3 | Ctrl-Alt-F3 | install log (messages from installation program) |
| 4 | Ctrl-Alt-F4 | system-related messages |
| 5 | Ctrl-Alt-F5 | other messages |
| 7 | Ctrl-Alt-F7 | X graphical display |
Generally, there's no reason to leave the default console (virtual console #7) unless you are attempting to diagnose installation problems. But if you get curious, feel free to look around.