How to Install Ubuntu from USB - FlyingMachineArena

Installing an operating system can sometimes feel like a daunting task, especially for those new to the world of Linux. However, with modern tools and clear instructions, the process of installing Ubuntu from a USB drive is remarkably straightforward. This method offers a portable and flexible way to experience Ubuntu, whether you’re looking to dual-boot with an existing OS, set up a dedicated workstation, or even explore Ubuntu without making permanent changes to your primary drive through a “live” session. This guide will walk you through each step, from preparing your USB drive to booting from it and initiating the installation.

Table of Contents

Preparing Your Ubuntu USB Installation Media

The first and most crucial step is to create a bootable Ubuntu USB drive. This involves downloading the Ubuntu ISO image and then using a specialized tool to write that image to your USB flash drive in a way that allows your computer to boot from it.

Downloading the Ubuntu ISO Image

Your journey begins with obtaining the Ubuntu ISO file. An ISO image is essentially a digital replica of an optical disc, containing all the files needed for the Ubuntu installation.

Visit the Official Ubuntu Website: Navigate to the official Ubuntu download page. You’ll typically find this at ubuntu.com/download.
Choose Your Ubuntu Version: Ubuntu offers several versions, with the most common being the Long Term Support (LTS) release and the latest interim release. LTS releases are recommended for most users due to their extended support period, ensuring stability and security updates for years. The latest interim release offers newer features but has a shorter support cycle.
Download the ISO File: Locate the download link for the desired Ubuntu desktop version (e.g., Ubuntu Desktop 22.04 LTS or the latest version). The file will be several gigabytes in size, so ensure you have a stable internet connection and sufficient disk space. The file will have a .iso extension.

Selecting and Preparing Your USB Drive

You’ll need a USB flash drive with enough storage capacity. A minimum of 8GB is generally recommended, though 16GB or larger will provide more breathing room.

Data Backup: Crucially, all data currently on the USB drive will be erased during the process of making it bootable. Ensure you have backed up any important files from the USB drive before proceeding.
Physical Drive: Insert the USB drive into a USB port on your computer.

Choosing and Using a USB Bootable Creator Tool

Once you have the Ubuntu ISO and a USB drive, you need a tool to write the ISO image to the USB drive correctly. Several excellent free tools are available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

For Windows Users: Rufus

Rufus is a popular, lightweight, and efficient utility for creating bootable USB drives.

Download Rufus: Go to the official Rufus website (rufus.ie) and download the latest portable version.
Launch Rufus: Run the downloaded executable.
Configure Rufus:
- Device: Select your USB flash drive from the dropdown menu. Be absolutely certain you choose the correct drive, as selecting the wrong one will erase its contents.
- Boot Selection: Click the “SELECT” button and browse to the location where you saved your Ubuntu ISO file. Select the ISO.
- Image Option: Rufus will usually automatically detect the correct option (Standard Windows installation). For Ubuntu, it’s typically “Disk or ISO image (Please select)”.
- Partition Scheme and Target System: For modern computers with UEFI firmware, “GPT” is generally the preferred partition scheme, and the “Target system” will be “UEFI (non CSM)”. If you’re installing on an older computer with BIOS, you might need to select “MBR” and “BIOS (or UEFI-CSM)”. Rufus often makes a good default selection based on your system, but it’s worth double-checking if you encounter boot issues.
- Volume Label: You can leave this as is or rename it to something like “Ubuntu Installer”.
- File System and Cluster Size: Leave these at their default settings unless you have specific reasons to change them.
Start the Process: Click the “START” button.
ISO Image Writing Mode: Rufus will likely ask if you want to write the image in “ISO Image mode” or “DD Image mode”. For Ubuntu, “ISO Image mode” is generally recommended. Confirm this choice.
Warning: You will receive a final warning that all data on the selected USB drive will be destroyed. Confirm by clicking “OK”.
Completion: Rufus will now write the ISO image to the USB drive. This process can take several minutes. Once it’s finished, the status bar will indicate “READY”. You can then close Rufus and safely eject the USB drive.

For macOS and Linux Users: Etcher

Etcher (now Balena Etcher) is a cross-platform tool known for its simplicity and reliability.

Download Etcher: Visit the Balena Etcher website (balena.io/etcher) and download the appropriate version for your operating system.
Install Etcher: Install the application as you would any other software on your system.
Launch Etcher: Open the Balena Etcher application.
Select Image: Click “Flash from file” and navigate to your downloaded Ubuntu ISO file. Select it.
Select Target: Click “Select target” and choose your USB flash drive. Again, ensure you select the correct drive to avoid data loss on other devices.
Flash!: Click the “Flash!” button. You may be prompted to enter your administrator password.
Writing and Validating: Etcher will then write the image to the USB drive and automatically validate it to ensure the process was successful. This might take a while, depending on the speed of your USB drive and computer.
Completion: Once flashing and validating are complete, Etcher will inform you. You can then close Etcher and safely eject the USB drive.

Booting from the Ubuntu USB Drive

With your bootable Ubuntu USB drive prepared, the next step is to configure your computer to boot from it. This usually involves accessing your computer’s BIOS or UEFI settings.

Accessing Your Computer’s BIOS/UEFI Settings

The method for accessing BIOS/UEFI varies by computer manufacturer. Typically, you need to press a specific key immediately after turning on your computer, before the operating system begins to load.

Restart or Power On: Turn off your computer completely, then power it back on.
Press the Boot Key: As the manufacturer’s logo appears on the screen, repeatedly press one of the following keys:
- Delete (Del)
- F2
- F10
- F12
- Esc
- (Consult your computer’s manual or search online for “[Your Computer Manufacturer/Model] BIOS key” if you’re unsure.)

Configuring the Boot Order

Once you are in the BIOS/UEFI setup utility, you need to change the boot order so that your computer attempts to boot from the USB drive before your internal hard drive.

Navigate to Boot Settings: Look for a section named “Boot,” “Boot Order,” “Boot Sequence,” or similar.
Identify Your USB Drive: You should see a list of available boot devices. Your USB drive will likely be listed by its manufacturer’s name or as “USB HDD,” “Removable Device,” or similar.
Change the Order: Use the arrow keys and on-screen instructions (often displayed within the BIOS/UEFI interface) to move your USB drive to the top of the boot order list.
Save and Exit: Once the USB drive is set as the primary boot device, navigate to the “Save & Exit” or “Exit” section. Select the option to “Save Changes and Exit” or “Exit Saving Changes.” Confirm your choice when prompted. Your computer will then restart.

Starting the Ubuntu Live Environment or Installer

If you have correctly configured the boot order and your USB drive is properly created, your computer should now boot from the USB drive. You will be presented with a menu from the Ubuntu installer.

GRUB Bootloader Menu: You will likely see the GRUB (GRand Unified Bootloader) menu, which typically offers options like:
- “Try or Install Ubuntu”
- “Ubuntu” (which might boot directly into the live environment)
- “Check disk for defects”
Select “Try or Install Ubuntu”: Use your arrow keys to highlight this option and press Enter.
Loading Ubuntu: The system will then load Ubuntu into your computer’s RAM. This is often referred to as the “Live” environment. You will see a progress bar and various messages as Ubuntu starts up.

Installing Ubuntu on Your Computer

Once Ubuntu has booted into the live environment, you have the option to try Ubuntu without making any changes to your system or to proceed with the installation.

Exploring the Ubuntu Live Environment

Before committing to an installation, it’s a good practice to explore the live environment. This allows you to test hardware compatibility, familiarize yourself with the Ubuntu desktop, and ensure everything works as expected.

Desktop Interface: You will be greeted by the Ubuntu desktop. You can browse files, connect to Wi-Fi, open web browsers, and interact with applications.
Hardware Check: Ensure your Wi-Fi, sound, graphics, and other essential hardware are recognized and functioning.

Launching the Ubuntu Installer

When you are ready to install Ubuntu, you can launch the installer directly from the live desktop.

Locate the Installer Icon: On the Ubuntu desktop, you will find an icon typically labeled “Install Ubuntu [Version Number]”.
Double-Click to Launch: Double-click this icon to start the installation wizard.

The Ubuntu Installation Wizard

The installation process is guided by a user-friendly wizard that will take you through several important steps.

Step 1: Welcome and Language Selection

Choose Your Language: The first screen will ask you to select your preferred language for the installation process and for your installed Ubuntu system. Select your language and click “Continue.”

Step 2: Keyboard Layout

Select Keyboard Layout: Choose the keyboard layout that matches your physical keyboard. You can type in the provided text box to test your selection. Click “Continue.”

Step 3: Updates and Other Software

This is a crucial step where you decide on network access and the type of installation.

“Normal installation” vs. “Minimal installation”:
- Normal installation: Installs a web browser, utilities, office software, games, and media players. This is recommended for most users.
- Minimal installation: Installs only a web browser and basic utilities. This is suitable for users who prefer to install software manually later.
“Download updates while installing Ubuntu”: It’s highly recommended to check this box if you have a stable internet connection. This will download the latest updates and security patches during the installation, saving you time later.
“Install third-party software for graphics and Wi-Fi hardware and additional media formats”: Checking this box is also highly recommended, as it installs proprietary drivers and codecs that may be necessary for your hardware (like Wi-Fi cards and graphics drivers) and for playing certain media files.
Click “Continue.”

Step 4: Installation Type (Partitioning)

This is arguably the most critical step, as it determines how Ubuntu will be installed on your hard drive. You have several options:

“Install Ubuntu alongside [Your Existing OS]”: If you have another operating system (like Windows) installed, this option will attempt to shrink its partition and create space for Ubuntu. This is the simplest way to set up a dual-boot system.
“Erase disk and install Ubuntu”: WARNING: This will delete ALL data on your selected hard drive and install only Ubuntu. Use this option if you want Ubuntu to be the only operating system on the computer and you have backed up any important data.
“Something else”: This option provides manual control over disk partitioning. This is for advanced users who want to create custom partitions (e.g., separate partitions for /home, /var, etc.) or have specific partitioning schemes in mind.

For most users wanting a simple dual-boot or a fresh Ubuntu install, “Install Ubuntu alongside…” or “Erase disk and install Ubuntu” are the easiest choices.

If you choose “Something else,” you will be presented with a disk partitioning tool. You will need to create at least one root partition (/) formatted as ext4 and set the mount point to /. A swap partition is also recommended, especially if you have less RAM.

Select your desired option and click “Install Now.” You will receive a final warning about changes being written to disk. Confirm by clicking “Continue.”

Step 5: Location (Time Zone)

Select Your Time Zone: Click on the map to set your geographical location, which will automatically set your time zone. Alternatively, you can type your city name into the search box. Click “Continue.”

Step 6: Create Your User Account

This is where you set up your login credentials.

Your Name: Enter your full name.
Your Computer’s Name: This is the hostname that will be used to identify your computer on a network.
Pick a Username: This will be your login name.
Choose a Password: Create a strong, memorable password.
Confirm Your Password: Re-enter your password.
Login Options: You can choose to log in automatically or require a password. It’s generally more secure to require a password.
Click “Continue.”

Completing the Installation

The installation process will now begin. Files will be copied to your hard drive, and the system will be configured. This can take anywhere from 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on your computer’s speed and the options you selected (like downloading updates).

Installation Progress: You will see a slideshow with information about Ubuntu as the installation progresses.
Restart Required: Once the installation is complete, you will see a message indicating that the installation is finished and that you need to restart your computer.
Remove USB Drive: Click the “Restart Now” button. It is critical to remove your USB installation media when prompted. The installer will usually remind you to do this. If you don’t remove it, your computer might boot back into the installer instead of your newly installed Ubuntu system.

First Boot and Post-Installation Steps

After restarting your computer with the USB drive removed, you should boot into your new Ubuntu installation.

Logging In to Ubuntu

Login Screen: You will be presented with the Ubuntu login screen. Enter the username and password you created during the installation.
Welcome to Ubuntu: You’ll see a welcome screen that might offer to connect you to online accounts, set up Livepatch (for applying security updates without restarting), and offer to install additional software or drivers. Follow the prompts if you wish.

Updating Your System

Even if you downloaded updates during installation, it’s always a good idea to check for any further updates immediately after installation.

Open Software Updater: Search for “Software Updater” in the application menu or press Ctrl + Alt + T to open the terminal and type sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade.
Apply Updates: The Software Updater will scan for available updates. If any are found, it will present them to you. Click “Install Now” and enter your password when prompted. This ensures your system is running the latest stable software and security patches.

Installing Additional Drivers (If Necessary)

While the “Install third-party software” option during installation handles many common drivers, some hardware might require manual driver installation.

Open “Software & Updates”: Search for “Software & Updates” in the application menu.
“Additional Drivers” Tab: Go to the “Additional Drivers” tab. This tool will scan your hardware for proprietary drivers that are available but not enabled by default.
Select and Apply: If any drivers are listed, select the recommended one (usually marked as “tested” or “proprietary”) and click “Apply Changes.” You may need to restart your computer for these drivers to take effect.

Personalizing Your Ubuntu Experience

With Ubuntu installed and up-to-date, you can now personalize it to your liking. Explore the settings menu, change the desktop background, adjust display settings, and install your favorite applications from the Ubuntu Software Center or via the terminal.

Installing Ubuntu from a USB drive is a gateway to a powerful, flexible, and free operating system. By following these steps, you can confidently set up Ubuntu on your computer and begin exploring its vast capabilities.