Getting Started

This guide covers installation of Fedora, a Linux distribution built on free and open source software. This manual helps you install Fedora on desktops, laptops, and servers. The installation system is easy to use, even if you lack previous knowledge of Linux or computer networks. If you select default options, Fedora provides a complete operating system, with solid security settings and including productivity applications, Internet utilities, and administration tools.

Fedora is provided in several distribution items tailored for special Purposes. We call it Editions and spins.

Because of these differences, there is no single installation procedure.

Most editions and spins, but not all, use Anaconda, the Fedora installer, but in a way that is quite different in detail.

Therefore, each edition describes the installation separately. Most spins are based on one of the editions, mostly Fedora Workstation, and use the corresponding installation procedure.

Nevertheless, there are some preparatory steps that are almost the same for all variants, e.g. you need to prepare an installation media.

According to different usage and purposes the variation not only differ in their installation process, they differ in administration and usage. To learn how to use an installed Fedora system, see the manuals available at the specific variant documentation pages.

Regarding installation, be especially prepared for the fact that each variant requires additional post-installation processes.

Despite all the differentiation, some things are the same for all variants.

If you encounter any problems which are not described in documentation, you might get help from members of the community - developers, users, and others. There are many ways to get help: the Ask Fedora website, mailing lists, forums, or IRC.

The discussion forum Ask Fedora is the recommended way to start with. See Getting help for detailed information.