🚀 go-pugleaf

I am beginner with Linux and have couple of questions:

what files/directories from Linux CD are essential for installation on a
laptop?

I have a laptop which can either use CD-ROM or a floppy at a given time.
what I have done is;
1) copy Linux CD to my laptop's HD, then run installation from hard
drive
2) remove CD drive and install floppy drive, so boot and supplemental
diskettes can
be read from and installation completed.

but, this process is taking 600 MB of my laptop's drive space.

can someone tell me what directories from Linux CD ROM are most
essential for installation,
so I can save some drive space?
any other ways to complete installation via network (maybe) ?

Also, what are the chances to have network card functioning with
Motorola Mariner PC card?
I do not see any Linux drivers at Motorola's WWW site.

thanks
ziggy