Are you thinking of installing Linux on your computer? Well, you’re not alone. Linux has become increasingly popular over the years with its open-source software and endless customization options. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of installing Ubuntu 18.04, one of the most popular Linux distributions out there.
Step 1: Download Ubuntu 18.04
The first step in installing Ubuntu 18.04 is to download the ISO file from the official website. You can find the download link here. Make sure to select the appropriate version for your system architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).
Step 2: Create a bootable USB drive
Once you’ve downloaded the ISO file, the next step is to create a bootable USB drive. This will allow you to boot into the Ubuntu installer and start the installation process. There are several ways to create a bootable USB drive, but the easiest method is to use a tool called Etcher.
To create a bootable USB drive with Etcher, follow these steps:
- Insert your USB drive into your computer.
- Open Etcher and select the Ubuntu ISO file you downloaded in Step 1.
- Select your USB drive as the target device.
- Click “Flash!” and wait for the process to complete.
Step 3: Boot from the USB drive
Once you’ve created a bootable USB drive, the next step is to boot your computer from it. To do this, you may need to change the boot order in your computer’s BIOS settings. The exact steps to do this will vary depending on your computer’s manufacturer and model, so you may need to consult your computer’s documentation or do a Google search to find out how to access the BIOS settings.
Once you’re in the BIOS settings, look for an option to change the boot order. Make sure that the USB drive is set to be the first boot device, and then save and exit the BIOS settings.
Your computer should now boot from the USB drive, and you should see the Ubuntu installer screen.
Step 4: Install Ubuntu 18.04
Once you’ve booted from the USB drive and reached the Ubuntu installer screen, the next step is to install Ubuntu 18.04 on your computer. The installation process is straightforward, and you just need to follow the on-screen instructions.
Here’s a brief overview of what you’ll need to do:
- Select your language and click “Continue”.
- Click “Install Ubuntu”.
- Select your keyboard layout and click “Continue”.
- Select “Normal installation” and click “Continue”.
- Select your time zone and click “Continue”.
- Create a user account and set a password. You can also choose to encrypt your home folder for added security.
- Click “Install” and wait for the installation process to complete.
- Once the installation is complete, click “Restart Now” to reboot your computer.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the advantages of using Linux?
Linux has many advantages over other operating systems, including:
- It’s free and open-source.
- It’s highly customizable and flexible.
- It’s more secure than other operating systems.
- It’s lightweight and can run on older hardware.
- It has a vast selection of software available, much of which is also free and open-source.
2. Is it difficult to learn how to use Linux?
Learning how to use Linux can be a bit challenging at first, especially if you’re used to using other operating systems like Windows or macOS. However, once you get the hang of it, you’ll find that it’s not that different from other operating systems and can be quite easy to use.
Conclusion
Installing Ubuntu 18.04 may seem intimidating at first, but it’s actually quite easy to do. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to install Ubuntu 18.04 on your computer in no time. If you have any questions or run into any issues during the installation process, don’t hesitate to do a Google search or consult the Ubuntu documentation for help.
