Linux

Hot to install Ubuntu step by step

Posted on by Kineticstar
18
Nov

🚀 Ubuntu for Everyone: The Definitive Guide to Installing the Linux Operating System You’ve Been Waiting For!

 

Hello everyone! I’m here, in my role as a tech-guru and science communicator, to reveal the cornerstone of a more faster, safer, and, above all, free computing experience. Say goodbye to slowdowns and viruses: your next operating system is called Ubuntu, the “Linux for human beings”!

Imagine breathing new life into your old PC, browsing without fear, and having access to thousands of free programs with one click. Whether you’re a complete novice or just looking for a stable solution, this step-by-step guide is designed for you. It’s time to make the switch!

 

💡 What is Ubuntu and Why is It the Right Choice?

 

Ubuntu is an intuitive Linux distribution, developed by Canonical Ltd., offering exceptional stability and performance.

  • Security: It is natively more resistant to malware.

  • Speed: It runs perfectly even on older hardware.

  • Freedom: It includes a complete suite of free software (Office, browser, etc.) and requires no paid licenses.

  • Reliability: LTS (Long Term Support) versions are supported for five years, guaranteeing you long-term peace of mind.

 

🛠️ Phase 1: Preparation and Necessary Materials

 

To start your installation, you only need a few simple tools.

 

Necessary Materials

 

  • Your PC: The one you want to install Ubuntu on.

  • USB Drive: Minimum 8 GB. (Remember: the data inside will be wiped!)

  • ISO File: The LTS version of Ubuntu (search for “Ubuntu download” on the official website).

  • Creation Software: A program to make the USB bootable.

 

1. Download the Most Stable Version (LTS)

 

Go to the official website and download the ISO file of the LTS version. This is your best choice for long-term stability.

 

2. Creating the Bootable Installer (Bootable USB)

 

You need to copy the ISO to the USB drive so that your PC can read it as an installation disk.

Use a dedicated program: the most popular on Windows is Rufus, but if you are looking for something cross-platform (Windows, Mac, Linux), I recommend Balena Etcher.

  • Action: Launch the chosen program, select your USB, point to the downloaded Ubuntu ISO file, and click Start or Flash. Wait for the process to complete.

 

💻 Phase 2: Boot and Installation

 

The crucial moment! Insert the USB drive into the PC and prepare to boot the operating system.

 

1. Booting from the USB Drive

 

You must instruct the computer not to load the installed operating system (e.g., Windows) but to start from the USB drive.

  • Action: Turn off and turn on the PC. Immediately after, repeatedly press the key that opens the Boot Menu or the BIOS/UEFI. This is usually F2, F12, ESC, or Del.

  • In the Menu: Select your USB drive (its name will appear).

⚠️ Super Tech Tip: Pay Attention to UEFI and Secure Boot! If you have a very recent computer, booting might fail due to a security feature called Secure Boot. If this happens, enter the BIOS/UEFI and disable Secure Boot. If you are unsure which key opens the boot menu, search Google for “boot menu key [PC model]”.

 

2. Try or Install?

 

After booting, you will see the Ubuntu welcome screen.

  • Try Ubuntu: Recommended! Ubuntu runs directly from the USB drive: you can test if all your hardware (Wi-Fi, audio) works perfectly without touching the hard disk! If everything is okay, proceed with the installation from the desktop icon.

  • Install Ubuntu: If you are confident, start the installation immediately.

 

3. The Installer Steps

 

The installer is guided and requires a few simple inputs:

  • Language and Keyboard: Select English.

  • Updates and Software: Check the option to download updates and install third-party software (media codecs, etc.). This will simplify your life.

 

4. The Crucial Choice: Partitioning (Dual Boot)

 

This is the point that often causes concern, but the Ubuntu installer does most of the work for you:

  • Install Alongside Windows (Dual Boot): The magic solution for novices! Ubuntu automatically resizes your existing partition and creates the necessary space. When you start the PC, you can choose whether to use Ubuntu or Windows.

  • Option to Erase Everything: If you want to dedicate the entire PC (perhaps an old one) only to Ubuntu.

  • Action: Choose Install Alongside Windows if you want to keep your old operating system.

 

5. Finalization

 

Set your time zone, and, most importantly, create your account with a strong password.

  • Remember the password well! On Linux, it is your administrator key and will be required to install software or change critical settings.

 

6. Restart

 

When finished, you will be asked to Restart Now. Remove the USB drive and press Enter.

 

🎉 Phase 3: Welcome to Your New World!

 

If you chose the “Dual Boot” installation, upon restart you will see the GRUB, the menu that allows you to choose between Ubuntu and Windows. Select Ubuntu and log in!

 

1. The First Expert Commands

 

The Terminal is your secret control center. Open it by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T.

The commands that follow start with the word sudo (which stands for SuperUser Do). Think of sudo as your administrator key; on Linux, you will use it every time you need to install or change something important.

To keep your system always updated and secure, use these two commands in sequence (enter your password when prompted):

  1. Update Package Indexes (Download the list of news):

    Bash
     
    sudo apt update

  2. Install Updates (Install the news):

    Bash
     
    sudo apt upgrade

 

2. Software Center

 

To install programs like Spotify, Chrome, or VLC, you don’t need to search online: click on the shopping bag icon. It’s your free application store, where you’ll find thousands of programs easily accessible.

Congratulations! You have just installed Ubuntu and upgraded your computing experience.

Kineticstar