How to Install Linux: A Beginner-Friendly Guide Using Ubuntu

Introduction

Are you ready to try Linux but not sure where to start? Whether you want to speed up an old PC, explore open-source software, or learn programming, Linux is a powerful and free operating system you can install in just a few steps.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to install Linux (Ubuntu) — one of the most popular and beginner-friendly Linux distributions — on your computer using a USB stick.

Why Choose Linux?

Before we get into the steps, here’s why millions are switching to Linux:

• Free & Open Source – No licensing fees or vendor lock-in.
• Secure & Private – Less prone to viruses and no hidden tracking.
• Fast & Lightweight – Works great even on old hardware.
• Customizable – Change everything from your desktop to the kernel.
• Developer-Friendly – Perfect for coding, DevOps, and server work.

Popular Linux distros include Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Fedora, and Debian — but this guide focuses on Ubuntu due to its ease of use.

📦 What You Need Before Installing Linux

🔧 Tools & Files Required:

• A USB flash drive (4GB minimum, 8GB+ recommended)
• A working computer with internet access
• The Ubuntu ISO file (Download here)
• A tool to create a bootable USB (e.g., Rufus or Balena Etcher)

🚀 Step-by-Step: How to Install Ubuntu Linux

🔹 Step 1: Download the Ubuntu ISO File

Go to ubuntu.com/download/desktop and download the latest Ubuntu Desktop ISO (usually LTS version is recommended for stability).

🔹 Step 2: Create a Bootable USB

🖥️ On Windows:

1. Download Rufus from rufus.ie
2. Plug in your USB drive
3. Open Rufus → Select your USB
4. Load the Ubuntu ISO
5. Click Start, wait for completion

💻 On Mac/Linux:

Use Balena Etcher:

1. Download from balena.io/etcher
2. Select Ubuntu ISO, your USB drive, and click Flash

🔹 Step 3: Boot Into Ubuntu

1. Insert your USB into the target PC
2. Restart and press the key for Boot Menu (usually F12, F2, Esc, or Del)
3. Select the USB drive from the boot menu
4. You’ll see the Ubuntu welcome screen

🔹 Step 4: Try or Install Ubuntu

You have two options:

• Try Ubuntu – Run Ubuntu without installing (Live Mode)
• Install Ubuntu – Begin full installation

Click Install Ubuntu to continue.

🔹 Step 5: Choose Installation Settings

1. Keyboard Layout – Select your preferred layout
2. Updates and Software – Choose Normal or Minimal install
3. Installation Type:
   • Erase disk and install Ubuntu – Wipes all data (⚠️)
   • Install alongside Windows – Creates a dual-boot setup
   • Something else – Manual partitioning (advanced users)
4. Timezone – Set your region
5. Create User Account – Choose a username and password

Click Install Now, confirm changes, and let the installer run (usually takes 10–20 minutes).

🔹 Step 6: Restart & Enjoy Linux

Once installed, remove your USB drive and reboot the system. You’re now running Ubuntu Linux!

💡 Tips After Installing Linux

🛠️ Update Your System

Run the following command to ensure everything is up-to-date:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

🔍 Install Software

Use the Ubuntu Software Center or Terminal:

sudo apt install vlc gimp chrome

🎨 Customize the Look

Use GNOME Tweaks, themes, and extensions to personalize your desktop.

🤔 FAQs About Installing Linux

❓ Can I keep Windows and install Linux too?

Yes! Just choose the “Install alongside Windows” option during installation to create a dual-boot system.

❓ Will Linux work on an old laptop?

Yes! Ubuntu works well, but you can also try lighter distros like Lubuntu or Xubuntu.

❓ Do I need to know coding to use Linux?

No. Most Linux distros are user-friendly with graphical interfaces — no coding required.

Final Thoughts

Installing Linux is no longer a technical challenge — it’s quick, clean, and often easier than installing Windows. With Ubuntu, you get a powerful, privacy-respecting, open-source operating system for free.

Whether you’re a developer, student, gamer, or just tech-curious, Linux offers freedom and control that mainstream systems don’t.