Appendix C. Managing the Boot Process
In this appendix, you’ll learn more about how to boot a Linux system; in particular, you’ll learn more about configuring your computer system to boot any of several operating systems. The appendix focuses on GNU GRUB, the Grand Unified Bootloader, the most popular utility for booting Linux systems. Most users won’t need to use the information in this appendix. But, this information can help you troubleshoot and resolve boot-related problems.
Tip
Red Hat Enterprise Linux and Fedora Core can be booted using bootloaders other than GRUB, such as LILO. Occasionally, LILO is able to boot a system that can’t be booted using GRUB. To learn more about LILO, see the related section of the Red Hat Linux 9 Reference Guide, available at http://www.redhat.com/docs/manuals/linux/RHL-9-Manual/ref-guide/s1-grub-lilo.html.
Booting Linux
When you boot a PC, you cause it to execute a small program known as a boot loader. The purpose of the boot loader is to locate and read into memory the first stage of an operating system and transfer control to it. The operating system then locates and reads its remaining components as needed.
The simplest way to boot Linux is by using a floppy diskette. By doing so, you’re able to leave the boot information on your hard drive untouched, ensuring that you can still boot Microsoft Windows or another operating system stored on the same hard drive. Moreover, some operating systems and virus protection programs prevent modification ...
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