How To Install Ubuntu Desktop - Full Step By Step Guide

Ubuntu, a popular and user-friendly Linux distribution, is known for its stability, security, and ease of use. Whether you're new to Linux or an experienced user, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of installing Ubuntu on your computer. 

By the end of this tutorial, you'll have a fully operational Ubuntu system up and running.

Note: Before you begin, ensure you've backed up important data as the installation process involves modifying your disk partitions.

Step 1: Download Ubuntu ISO Image

Visit the official Ubuntu website: https://ubuntu.com/download

Download the latest LTS (Long-Term Support) version of Ubuntu. Choose the appropriate version based on your system's architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).

Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive [ For Windows Users]

Insert a USB drive with a capacity of at least 4GB into your computer.

Download and install Rufus (for Windows) from: https://rufus.ie

Open Rufus and select your USB drive under "Device."

Click on the "Select" button and choose the Ubuntu ISO image you downloaded.

Leave the default settings for the other options.

Click "Start" to create the bootable USB drive.

Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive using UNetbootin [For Linux And macOS ]

Insert USB Drive: Insert a USB drive with a capacity of at least 4GB into your computer's USB port.

Download UNetbootin:

Visit the official UNetbootin website: https://unetbootin.github.io/

Download the appropriate version of UNetbootin for your operating system 

Install UNetbootin:

If you downloaded the installer macOS, run it and follow the on-screen instructions to install UNetbootin.

On Linux, you might find UNetbootin in your distribution's software repositories. 

Open your terminal, Use your package manager to install it

sudo apt-get install unetbootin

Launch UNetbootin:

Open UNetbootin from your applications menu or desktop shortcut.

Select USB Drive:

In UNetbootin's interface, ensure your USB drive is selected under the "USB Drive" or "Drive" option. Make sure you choose the correct drive to avoid data loss.

Choose Distribution or ISO:

Choose either "Distribution" or "Diskimage," depending on your needs.

If selecting "Distribution," use the drop-down menu to choose a Linux distribution. UNetbootin can download the distribution's ISO file for you.

If you select "Diskimage," click the "..." button and navigate to the location where you saved the ISO file for the operating system you want to install.

Settings (Optional):

Depending on the distribution or disk image you selected, you might have additional options to configure, such as space allocation for persistence or other settings. Adjust these as needed.

Create Bootable USB:

Once you've selected the distribution or ISO file and adjusted any settings, click the "OK" or "Next" button to start the creation process.

Process Completion:

UNetbootin will copy the necessary files and make the USB drive bootable. This might take some time, so be patient.

Eject USB Drive:

After the process is completed, safely eject the USB drive from your computer.

Your bootable USB drive is now ready for use. 

Step 3: Boot from USB Drive

Restart your computer.

During startup, access the boot menu by pressing the appropriate key (e.g., F2, F12, Esc) as indicated on your screen.

Choose the USB drive as the boot option from the menu.

Step 4: Start Ubuntu Installation

Once your system boots from the USB drive, you'll see the Ubuntu installation menu. Select "Install Ubuntu" to begin.

Step 5: Choose Language and Keyboard Layout

Choose your preferred language and click "Continue."

Select your keyboard layout and click "Continue."

Step 6: Prepare Installation Type

Choose the installation type that suits your needs:

Normal Installation: Install Ubuntu alongside your existing OS (dual boot).

Erase Disk and Install Ubuntu: Remove all data on the selected disk and install Ubuntu.

Something Else: Manually partition your disk.

Step 7: Configure Partitioning (If Applicable)

If you selected "Something Else," you'll need to set up partitions manually:

Create a root ("/") partition with sufficient space (at least 20GB).

Create a swap partition with a size roughly equal to your RAM.

Step 8: Fill in User Details

Provide your name, computer's name, username, and password.

Choose whether to log in automatically or require a password at login.

Step 9: Begin Installation

Click "Install Now" to start the installation. A confirmation prompt about partition changes will appear.

Step 10: Select Time Zone

Choose your time zone and click "Continue."

Step 11: Select Software and Begin Installation

Choose the software you want to install:

Check the box for "Install third-party software for graphics and Wi-Fi hardware and additional media formats."

Click "Continue" to initiate the installation.

Step 12: Finish Installation

Once installation is complete, you'll be prompted to remove the installation media (USB drive).

Press "Enter" to continue.

Step 13: Boot into Ubuntu

Your system will reboot, and the Ubuntu login screen will appear.

Enter your password to log in.

Step 14: Updates and Additional Drivers

After logging in, Ubuntu might prompt you to install updates and additional drivers.

Follow the prompts to keep your system up to date.

Conclusion:

Congratulations! You've successfully installed Ubuntu on your computer. You're now part of a vibrant and supportive Linux community and can explore the Ubuntu Software Center to customize your desktop and install applications. 

Whether you're using Ubuntu for work, development, or general use, you've taken a significant step toward enjoying the features and benefits of this powerful open-source operating system.