How do I install linux on an old machine?

I have an old Dell 2.4 Ghz machine with 500 mb's of Ram and want to wipe the harddrive clean and install Ubuntu (i guess start with the name brand). I assume I wipe the harddrive clean, but with no windows, what must I use to install linux when everythings blank? A thumbdrive? I don't have any floppy disks anymore. Please help, I need to get this first one under my belt so I can then explore using the other identical system as a fileserver. These linux distros are calling my name. Thanks.

How do I install linux on an old machine?
Before you do anything rash, you get a Ubuntu liveCD/liveDVD and put it in the DVD drive, and see if it will boot. It boots and you run Ubuntu from the DVD. If it runs, you should be able to install it from the DVD. If it doesn't run, you need to figure out how to reset the bios to boot from the DVD.





Once you know you can install Ubuntu, if you want to be rash, you simply start the installer and use it to reformat the hard drive. (Being a disciple of dual-booting, at least initially, I do not advise you do this, but it is your choice.)





I have installed Ubuntu on two different Dell laptops. The only problems I run into are wireless connectivity (one one machine) and sometimes sound. These are both correctable problems.
Reply:If your machine has an optical drive, you can create a bootable install CD from a downloaded ISO. Your PC will have to be able to boot from the optical drive. You'll need to set that in the BIOS at startup.
Reply:Well your probably can't. :D