Install

[lisper]

I have a dilemma. Forgive me if I ask questions that have obvious answers.
Ok first, I was given an old(ish) computer from a college computer lab, the drive has been formatted, and I am wanting to install linux on it... the problem is that when it starts up - it boots from floppy and then HD and skips the CD drive... and I cannot change that because to get into that setup requires a password which I do not have. So I am wondering... would I need a Linux boot disk? Would that allow me to install from my Linux CD? And secondly... how do I make one? Because I have tried and could not figure it out. Or is there a much quicker and easier way to do this? Like just starting the installation after the computer has started... from... DOS? Forgive my ignorance. Replies appreciated.

[TheMajor]

first ask for the password
else
try to boot with a 95/98 bootfloppy and try starting the setup or install file on the linux cd (or maybe a autoexec.bat file)
for bootdisks: http://www.bootdisk.com

[kilgoretrout]

If it's that "oldish" it may not be able to boot from the cdrom but you can clear the password by removing the battery for about ten minutes with the power disconnected. Then replacing the battery. Most distros also have instructions in the Readme file for making a boot floppy if your box doesn't have the ability to boot from a cdrom.

[mc2phat]

Remove the battery from the motherboard overnight to clear the CMOS, that will clear the password and you can get into the BIOS.

here's info from Red Hat about boot disks:
http://www.redhat.com/docs/manuals/l...all-cdrom.html

[lisper]

Thank you, that is extremely helpful