HDD Plans with Linux

Operating Systems & Open Source Linux
1

So I just ordered a new 1tb hdd from newegg, and I was thinking about putting a linux distro on it. I want to put something like openSUSE on it, and use it for general web browsing and productivity, and keep my games on windows 7. I want to do this mostly to keep me focused on working when I am supposed to, and I don't really need any games on linux.

My main concern is how to install/boot into the linux hdd. Right now I have a 120gb ssd with windows and a 500gb hdd with assorted files and games on it, and I would be frequently booting into it to play games, but I want to experiment with linux on the new 1tb drive that is on its way. When I have the new hdd with linux installed, will I have to go to the boot device manager in my bios every time to ensure that I boot into the right os, or is there a way for me to control that more easily?

Also, does anyone have any suggestions on distros that I should use or experiment with? I am willing to create a few partitions on the new hdd for this purpose, but again I run into the same problem as I do above with booting into the correct os.

2

When you are installing linux on your new hdd, just make sure that all other drives are disconnected. After linux is installed, go into your BIOS and set that drive as the first drive in the boot order. Then, GRUB ( or your boot loader ) would allow you to boot into the OS of choice.

3

The above is one way to do it, however if you leave the drives connected linux will see windows and give you a choice upon every boot.

4

Does GRUB automatically install when I install linux? I've never had to use it before. Also, If I installed other distros onto the 1tb drive in different partitions, would GRUB recognize them?

5

Yes, GRUB does come with OpenSUSE by default. You might have to fiddle with GRUB's settings to get other distros to work.

6

Ok, thank you.