Before installing linux, I was told by a friend that Linux could read NTFS partitions. I installed Mandrake 8.0 and it can't. How would I go about getting it to read the NTFS partition? Do I have to make additions to the kernel and recompile or what? Thanks.

You'll probably need to recompile the kernel if mounting the partition doesn't work (I assume you've tried mounting it - otherwise you wouldn't know it doesn't work!).

Under the 'File Systems' section of the kernel config there is mention of 'NTFS (read-only)' or words to that effect. Just select and and your away. There is *experimental* write support I believe but I never played with it.

For info on compiling your kernel have a look at http://www.linuxdoc.org/HOWTO/Kernel-HOWTO.html if its your first time building the kernel it'll probably seem a little daunting but its pretty straight forward. I won't try to explain anymore as the HOWTO will nodoubt do a much better job.

You might also want to search for Forum for other peoples kernel issues - there are been a few posts recently.

HTH

Jamie...

My drake 8 mounted NTFS just fine (Win 2000). I did not need to recompile anything.

HOwever, I have since blown that install away and don't use Windows on that PC anymore.