Get your old PC or Laptop ready for the install.

[Rob Swan]

Plug the old PC or Laptop (server PC) into your router (network) VIA A WIRE (it may work on wireless but I must strongly advise against it). You should use a standard network patch cable for this. If there is NO WAY AT ALL you can have your server permanently connected VIA a wire, later in the guide I will show how to connect your server wirelessly.

IMPORTANT BACKUP BACKUP BACKUP (so important is needs to be said 3 times)

EVERYTHING I mean everything including all software, data and even windows will be PERMANENTLY DELETED . Recovery is impossible once you install Linux. Also be aware that it may be tricky to even re-install windows after Linux has been installed. Yes, it is not impossible to re-install Windows, it’s just a bit of a pain. So if you want this PC to run on windows at any point ever again consider this carefully before proceeding. Also it may be a good idea to make a note of any serial numbers for software that is installed (software keys).

YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!