Deciding which distribution set to install will depend largely on the intended use of the system and the amount of disk space available. The predefined options range from installing the smallest possible configuration to everything. Those who are new to UNIX® or FreeBSD should select one of these canned options. Customizing a distribution set is typically for the more experienced user.

Press F1 for more information on the distribution set options and what they contain. When finished reviewing the help, press Enter to return to the Select Distributions Menu.

If a graphical user interface is desired, the configuration of Xorg and selection of a default desktop must be done after the installation of FreeBSD. More information regarding the installation and configuration of a Xorg can be found in Chapter 6, The X Window System.

If compiling a custom kernel is anticipated, select an option which includes the source code. For more information on why a custom kernel should be built or how to build a custom kernel, see Chapter 9, Configuring the FreeBSD Kernel.

The most versatile system is one that includes everything. If there is adequate disk space, select All, as shown in Figure 3.25, “Choose Distributions”, by using the arrow keys and pressing Enter. If there is a concern about disk space, consider using an option that is more suitable for the situation. Do not fret over the perfect choice, as other distributions can be added after installation.

Figure 3.25. Choose Distributions

After selecting the desired distribution, an opportunity to install the FreeBSD Ports Collection is presented. The Ports Collection is an easy and convenient way to install software as it provides a collection of files that automate the downloading, compiling, and installation of third-party software packages. Chapter 5, Installing Applications: Packages and Ports discusses how to use the Ports Collection.

The installation program does not check to see if you have adequate space. Select this option only if you have adequate hard disk space. As of FreeBSD 9.1, the FreeBSD Ports Collection takes up about 500 MB of disk space. You can safely assume a larger value for more recent versions of FreeBSD.

Select [ Yes ] with the arrow keys to install the Ports Collection or [ No ] to skip this option. Press Enter to continue. The Choose Distributions menu will redisplay.

Figure 3.26. Confirm Distributions

Once satisfied with the options, select Exit with the arrow keys, ensure that [ OK ] is highlighted, and press Enter to continue.