How large are your hard drive/s??. What is your perpose for wanting to install Mandrke (Besides the fact that linux Ownez). Curiosity, web server, ect ect? If this is your first time installing Linux, and you are just testing the water so to speak. Then 2 GB should be fine. I dont use mandrake (DEBIAN IS KING) so I am not shure what all comes with. But I would have to say install the base system, and then add to it. Learn how to compile and install from source. That way you get a real feel for the system. Once you have figured out how to manage your linux install, then you can decide on how you may want to repartition your drive/s. With any luck you will get rid of Microcrap, and run a good OS. By the way Lindows is coming soon. It will be the best of both worlds. www.lindows.com