for NOT setting the root password during installation, and "enforcing" sole use of sudo, or is that too easy vs su and actually using the root password with its risk of exposure/interception (in a worst-case/paranoid scenario)? Those with experience generally know how to get around that silly restriction - or learn how after the first incident with fsck or other start up issues that require root to fix, or "ctrl-D to continue" right on into rescue mode hassles (or failing those, re-installation) that can be avoided with diligent setting of the root password. As I recall from my recent Centos 6.2 installation that is done right after setting the time zone.
Of course, the idea of not using root for routine usage of apps/system is crucial to safe practices on all major distros (Puppy excepted...).
BTW, detailing the hardware you had issues with would be a service to the community in helping to pinpoint problem devices - those seem to make or break each individual's installation experience.
TIA
