Re: installer defaults for desktops (was Re: Suggested edit)

[Richard Owlett <rowlett@cloud85.net>]

On 03/24/2017 07:07 AM, Richard Owlett wrote:
> On 03/23/2017 05:18 PM, Catherine Gramze wrote:
> > [ *SNIP* ]
> > A complete Debian dvd set does NOT solve the unrecognized network
> > problem; only the unofficial iso downloads that include the non-free
> > firmware do. The same issue was present the last time I used a
> > complete  12 dvd set, which was years ago. We need to do all we can,
> > within the  limits of the Debian commitment to FOSS, to make Debian
> > easier to  install, not harder. If anybody must be inconvenienced,
> > make it theusers best equipped to work around it.
>
> I suspect that statement is factually incorrect.
> I've been using *ONLY* multi-DVD sets to install Debian [since Squeeze].
> Who would want to install something the size of Debian via dial-up?
> My machines had recognized hardware, but nothing to connect to.
> Also my latest Jessie was on a new {to me ;} Lenovo T510. Its WiFi chip
> set is not supported and I'm give the option to obtain the non-free
> driver required or to proceed without. By analogy I would assume the
> same logic is in the network discovery process. Especially since I can
> opt out of the network discovery process by pressing "Enter" a half
> dozen times which then asks I wish to proceed without network access.
>
> I may download the netinst *image* [ CD v. DVD is specious, only way
> to do it is a netinst flash drive ;]. It might be just the ticket for
> some of my minimalist experiments.

I just downloaded the netinst image and placed on a flash drive.
I ran it with my internet access disabled by unplugging it to simulate 
no suitable NIC. I saw no problem with how the lack of a functional 
internet connection was handled.

Some small text only might make it feel more newbie friendly.
1. Add a link on debian.org in the box with the link to download
   netinst. Have it lead to a short page describing the netinst pkg.
2. Modify the text displayed when the lack of internet connection is
   found to explicitly state that proceeding will give a system with
   command line interface and no a GUI.

That installer does produce a system very suitable for my minimalist 
experiments. When I order my next multi-DVD set, I'll add it to the order.