Strog
May 12th, 2006, 08:36
http://www.onlamp.com/pub/a/bsd/2006/05/11/FreeBSD_Basics.html


"Using PC-BSD
by Dru Lavigne
05/11/2006

My next two articles will demonstrate the features of two desktop operating systems that are based on FreeBSD. Both PC-BSD and DestopBSD provide an easy to install and easy to use desktop environment suited for the corporate desktop user as well as the home user with no previous Unix experience. Today I'll concentrate on PC-BSD. My next article will focus on DesktopBSD.
Click here to find out more!

While much of today's article will provide an introduction to what a novice BSD user can expect if they install PC-BSD, users already familiar with FreeBSD and the KDE desktop will still find some interesting features for dealing with ports, cvsup, and updates.
Getting and Installing PC-BSD

PC-BSD is available from the PC-BSD download page, from where you can download and then burn the ISO. Alternately, if you don't have access to a burner or wish to support the project, you can purchase a three-CD set for $35.

Hint: power users may enjoy downloading and trying the new PC-BSD vmware image, which is also available from the download site.

Once you have the CD, insert it into the CD drive as you start your computer. Most systems should already be configured to boot from CD, meaning the install program will automatically begin. The PC-BSD website has screenshots of everything you'll see during the install. (I've linked to them where appropriate.)

Some text messages will go by and then you'll see the PC-BSD splash screen with its bright yellow flowers. When you see the Installation menu, press enter to start the graphical install.

You'll have the option to choose your language and keyboard layout. Click the Start Installation button to proceed. You'll then see a welcome message. Press Next to continue.

The installer will then show you your hard drive(s) and ask you to select where to install PC-BSD. If you only have one hard drive and only want PC-BSD on your computer, click on the box that says "Use entire disk for UNIX" and then Next to continue. You'll receive a warning that all data currently on the disk will be lost. If you're OK with that, press OK.

The next screen will ask if you need a boot loader. If PC-BSD will be the only operating system on your computer, click the "No boot-loader" button, and then Next to continue. You can now watch as PC-BSD installs on your computer.

When it finishes, the installer will ask you to set the root (administrative) password and make a login account. Be careful when you pick your username, as it is case-sensitive. You may want to keep your username lowercase, and spell your full name correctly under Real Name, which is just a description. If you leave the "Auto-login User" box selected, the system will bring you right into the desktop without asking you to log in, which is convenient if you are the only user of a home system. If you share your computer with other users, deselect this box.

When you click Next, the system will set up your account, and then you'll receive a message indicating that the install is complete. Click Finish to reboot into the new system and don't forget to remove the CD once the reboot starts."

Full Article (http://www.onlamp.com/pub/a/bsd/2006/05/11/FreeBSD_Basics.html)