Chapter 14. Linux Installation and Package Management (Topic 2.2)

Many resources describe Linux installation.^[1] Despite its title, however, this section's Topic and Objectives do not provide an overview for the installation of any particular Linux distribution. Rather, they focus on four installation topics and two packaging tools as required for LPI Exam 102:

^[1] One excellent resource is Running Linux, Third Edition, by Matt Welsh, Matthias Kalle Dalheimer, and Lar Kaufman (O'Reilly & Associates).

Objective 1: Design a Hard Disk Layout

The layout and partitioning of disks is a fundamental concept for almost all computer platforms. Unlike other operating systems though, Linux uses multiple partitions in a unified filesystem. This Objective covers this filesystem layout. Weight: 2.

Objective 2: Install a Boot Manager

Booting Linux is a process started by a boot manager. This Objective covers the use of LILO. Weight: 2.

Objective 3: Make and Install Programs from Source

The unique advantages of open source software allow the distribution of programs in source code form. This Objective covers compiling and installing programs from source code. (Objectives 5 and 6 deal with binary package management.) Weight: 2.

Objective 4: Manage Shared Libraries

One of the efficiencies of modern operating systems is the concept of shared libraries of system software. This Objective provides an overview of shared libraries and their configuration. Weight: 3.

Objective 5: Use Debian Package Management.

This topic covers the management of Debian Linux binary packages. Weight: 5.

Objective 6: Use Red Hat Package Manager (RPM)

This topic covers the management of RPM binary packages. Weight: 8.