FreeBSD 6.2: Migration from Linux Setup and Kernel Building Prep

If you’re migrating to FreeBSD from linux, I’d recommend installing pico and bash before doing anything.

Both of these can be found in ‘ports’. Ports is a collection of software ported just specifically for FreeBSD. Even though I’m using an older version of FreeBSD, both of these apps should run just fine.

PICO

• cd /usr/ports/editors/pico
• make
• make install

BASH

• cd /usr/ports/shells/bash/
• make
• make install

Now that you have bash installed, you can change your default shell to be bash. Unfortunately this will require you to use the ABSOLUTELY DEPRECATED “Vim” “text editor” because microcomputing elitists refuse to accept that it is superior inferior to even the most basic circa 1985 electronic typewriter.

• chsh
• press INS
• modify /bin/csh to say /usr/local/bin/bash
  • this will be difficult as you will have to read a little about vIM commands to figure it out. if you mess up just hit “ctrl + c” or “ctrl + z” to exit Vim and start over.
    • you can find a list of Vim commands here.
  • be careful, if you mess this up it’s a pain to fix. check what you’re typing before you save it.

“:” + “w” to save the file

“:” + “q” to quit Vim and return to normalcy.

We’re now ready to work on your FreeBSD kernel.

What I’d like you to do is read this along with what you do here, to make sure I don’t miss anything. This isn’t necessary, but, it won’t hurt you to hear it from the source. I think I explain it a little easier than they do, and a little more directly to the point. If you want history and theory behind things, learn the mechanics first, you’ll do better with the terminology and actual application.

When you’re ready, meet me here to work on the actual kernel.

UPDATE:

When you’re ready, meet me here to work on the actual kernel.

~ by Chris Punches on 20080311.