Let me say, in this explanation I use “CD-rom”, that is actually probably, a DVD-rom. Also I do not accept responsibility for any lack of success, or even if you completely obliterate your system, leaving you with an inert bit of hardware forever. That said, here is my explanation and I have mostly not fried any hard drives.
(mostly)
The first step in my opinion, is just go buy a second hard drive. Then download a Linux install CD from some place (I have ubuntu, there are a lot of places to unload a Linux CD however)
That is it. Have a blank extra hard drive, and (before you start) copy an install CD (DVD).
That’s all you need.
Remove your hard drive from your computer, which will keep your operating system 100% intact, unless you are completely lacking at basic repair skills. This involves removing some screws and some basic (very basic) mechanical effort. Very basic.
Put your new hard drive in your PC. Your computer is now no longer functioning, don’t worry. A blank hard drive. Then load your CD with the installation CD you saved.
Follow the instructions.
Others can probably offer advice, but this is my simple set of instructions.
My biggest suggestion is however, the extra install CD-rom needs to be copied first.
Or you will now have an inert bit of cool-looking plastic now on your desk.
One of those two... :D
Could one use a external hard drive?