2.1. Synopsis

The following chapter will attempt to guide you through the installation of FreeBSD on your system. It can be installed through a variety of methods, including anonymous FTP (assuming you have network connectivity via modem or local network), CDROM, floppy disk, tape, an MS-DOS partition, or even NFS.

No matter which method you choose, you will need to get started by creating the installation disks as described in the next section. Booting into the FreeBSD installer, even if you are not planning on installing FreeBSD right away, will provide important information about compatibility with your hardware. This information may dictate which installation options are even possible for you. It can also provide clues early-on in the process to potential problems you may come across later.

If you plan to install FreeBSD via anonymous FTP, the only things you will need are the installation floppies. The installation program itself will handle anything else that is required.

For more information about obtaining FreeBSD, see the Obtaining FreeBSD section of the Appendix.

By now, you are probably wondering what exactly it is you need to do. Continue on to the installation guide.