USB booting :: About booting from USB devices...

To be honest, I am a total newbie when it comes to Linux, however, I do have an interest in learning whatever I can about the operating system and its (many) distributions. "Damn Small Linux" is my second distribution. I actually gave-up on the first. (Berry Linux.) The process of installing it on my hard drive and having it co-exist with Windows XP proved to be rather frustrating and time-consuming. Though I have no interest in installing "Damn Small Linux" to my hard drive, I do like the concept of booting it from my USB FlashDrive. However, I have a small inquiry regarding this particular method of using the operating system: Since files can be read and written to a Flash device, unlike a CD-ROM, does this mean that any changes I make to the Linux configuration while booted from my FlashDrive will be saved on my FlashDrive? I am hoping that the answer is yes. Though I cannot try it out for myself...yet. I did follow the exact procedure for mounting to a USB device, though Linux seems to have difficulty locating the Knoppix image.

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Hi Tarisoto

Yes, you can save changes you make to your DSL.

Its explained quite well on the default home page of the Dillo web browser, it should open when you first start DSL. Click on the link 'Saving Your Configuration'

Basically you need to edit /home/dsl/filetool.lst before you run the Backup tool.

You add the directories you want to Backup to the filetool.lst file

You can then run the Rackup/Restore tool with the sda1 option (mount sda1 or whatever your USB Pendrive is first) from the DSLpanel

Oh and Tarisoto, I have been messing about, on and off, for years with Linux distros and I keep coming back to DSL. So well done for finding it on your 2nd try

I hope I helped

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Quote (usul @ Dec. 08 2004,16:32)

Edit within a Linux command line? (scoffs)

I wouldn't know the first thing about doing that... Unfortunately, I am a total Linux newbie who's grown-up within the user-friendliness of Windows.

I do wish to learn about Linux because I am very curious and have heard many good things about it. However, I do not have many resources in my area. Actually, I am the only person in my class who takes an interest in learning about Linux. Though we don't have the resources... But I am trying to find some books online that might be helpful. (Speaking of which, I am open to recommendations.)

I probably shouldn't be messing with DSL at the moment, at least, not until I understand the basics of Linux. However, even though I managed to get it to boot just fine from USB, I still don't know anything about installing it, or other distributions to my hard drive. My first distribution, Berry Linux, have proved to be extremely difficult for me, especially since I don't understand the process of mounting all these devices and what-not. (But I do understand the partitioning part just fine...)

Anyways, I appreciate your response. Though I must apologize, as I imagine that I must be a bit of a pain. (Not understanding how to follow your troubleshooting instructions.)

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Hey Tarisoto

The default graphical text editor in DSL is MP in v9.0, if you are using an older version of DSL then use Scite. If you use the file browser Emelfm to open filetool.lst you might find it easier.

I was once a complete Linux noob btw, and I dont think I really know anything about Linux now, but the more you use it the more you learn. I am reading a book called Linux+ at the moment but it is a certification guide. Any of the Linux guides will be able to teach you loads about Linux. There are loads of them in good online book stores. Take a look on http://www.amazon.com (do a search for Linux Books)

If you have'nt tried DSL Embeded yet, download it and have a look. You can basically load DSL in its own window on a Windows machine, its really cool.

Good luck in the future with Linux Tarisoto, and I hope this helps

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original here.