Ubuntu – An Absolute Beginner’s Guide (How to Install It)
If you're new to the world of Linux, Ubuntu is the
perfect starting point. It's user-friendly, secure, and free. Whether you're a
student exploring Linux, a job seeker trying to build a career in IT, or an
employee looking to run lightweight systems efficiently, Ubuntu offers the
tools and flexibility to help you get started fast.
This guide walks you step-by-step through installing Ubuntu
on your system—even if you’ve never used Linux before.
What is Ubuntu?
Ubuntu is an open-source Linux-based operating system
developed by Canonical. It is designed to be easy to use, highly secure, and
fully customizable. Ubuntu is free to download and is widely used for personal
computers, servers, and cloud platforms.
It’s ideal for:
- New
users who want to escape the limitations of proprietary OSs like Windows
- Developers
who want a clean, open-source environment
- Students
who are learning about operating systems and networking
- Professionals
managing secure, cost-effective infrastructure
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System Requirements to Install Ubuntu
Before installing Ubuntu, make sure your system meets the
minimum requirements:
Minimum System Requirements:
- Processor:
2 GHz dual-core or better
- RAM:
4 GB (8 GB recommended for smoother experience)
- Disk
Space: 25 GB free
- USB
Drive: At least 4 GB for creating bootable media
- Internet:
Required for downloading updates during or after installation
How to Download Ubuntu
- Visit
the official Ubuntu website: https://ubuntu.com/download
- Choose
your version (most beginners should go for Ubuntu Desktop LTS)
- Click Download
How to Create a Bootable USB
You’ll need a USB stick to install Ubuntu:
Steps:
- Use
tools like Rufus (Windows) or Startup Disk Creator (Linux)
or Balena Etcher (cross-platform)
- Select
the downloaded Ubuntu ISO file
- Choose
your USB drive
- Click Start
to create the bootable drive
How to Install Ubuntu (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Boot from USB
- Insert
the bootable USB stick into your PC
- Restart
your system
- Enter BIOS/UEFI
(usually by pressing F2, F10, F12, or Del)
- Set
USB as the first boot device
- Save
and exit
Step 2: Start Installation
- When
the Ubuntu screen loads, choose Try Ubuntu or Install Ubuntu
- Select
language, keyboard layout, and Wi-Fi
Step 3: Set Installation Type
- Choose
one of the following:
- Install
Ubuntu alongside existing OS
- Erase
disk and install Ubuntu
- Manual
partitioning (for advanced users)
Step 4: Set User Details
- Enter
your name, computer name, username, and password
- Click Continue
Step 5: Let It Install
- The
installer will copy files and install the OS (10–20 minutes)
- When
done, restart the computer and remove the USB stick
Post-Installation Tips
- Run
system updates:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade - Explore
the Ubuntu Software Center for free apps
- Customize
your desktop appearance
- Learn
basic commands using the terminal
Benefits of Using Ubuntu
Feature |
Benefit |
Free and Open Source |
No licensing fees, fully customizable |
Secure and Stable |
Fewer viruses, reliable performance |
Lightweight OS |
Ideal for older PCs and laptops |
Developer-Friendly |
Comes with terminal, compilers, Git, and support for
coding languages |
Large Community Support |
Millions of users, forums, and tutorials available online |
Top 5 FAQs About Installing Ubuntu
Question |
Answer |
Can I install Ubuntu alongside Windows? |
Yes, Ubuntu allows dual booting with Windows during setup. |
Is Ubuntu free to use? |
Absolutely, Ubuntu is 100% free and open source. |
How long does Ubuntu take to install? |
Typically 10–20 minutes depending on your system. |
Do I need to know Linux commands to use Ubuntu? |
No, but learning a few commands enhances your experience. |
Can I run Ubuntu on an old laptop? |
Yes, Ubuntu is lightweight and works well on older
hardware. |
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