FreeBSD Handbook
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# Chapter 3 Installing FreeBSD 8.`X` and Earlier

Restructured, reorganized, and parts rewritten by Jim Mock. The sysinstall walkthrough, screenshots, and general copy by Randy Pratt.

# 3.1 Synopsis

FreeBSD is provided with a text-based, easy to use installation program. FreeBSD 9.0-RELEASE and later use the installation program known as bsdinstall, with releases prior to 9.0-RELEASE using sysinstall for installation. This chapter describes the use of sysinstall to install FreeBSD. The use of bsdinstall is covered in Chapter 2.

After reading this chapter, you will know:

- How to create the FreeBSD installation disks.

- How FreeBSD refers to, and subdivides, your hard disks.

- How to start sysinstall.

- The questions sysinstall will ask you, what they mean, and how to answer them.

Before reading this chapter, you should:

- Read the supported hardware list that shipped with the version of FreeBSD you are installing, and verify that your hardware is supported.

> Note: In general, these installation instructions are written for i386™ (“PC compatible”) architecture computers. Where applicable, instructions specific to other platforms will be listed. Although this guide is kept as up to date as possible, you may find minor differences between the installer and what is shown here. It is suggested that you use this chapter as a general guide rather than a literal installation manual.

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