Ubuntu, a popular and user-friendly Linux distribution, continues to evolve with each new release. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of installing Ubuntu 22.04.3 on your desktop computer. Whether you’re a Linux enthusiast or a newcomer, this step-by-step tutorial will help you get started with the latest and greatest features of Ubuntu.
Before You Begin
Before diving into the installation process, it’s essential to ensure that your computer meets the minimum system requirements for Ubuntu 22.04.3. You’ll need:
- A 64-bit processor
- 2 GB of RAM or more
- 25 GB of free disk space
- A stable internet connection
- Additionally, back up any important data on your computer to prevent data loss during the installation.
Download Ubuntu 22.04.3 ISO
Visit the official Ubuntu website (https://ubuntu.com/download) and download the ISO file for Ubuntu 22.04.3. Choose the appropriate version based on your system architecture (32-bit or 64-bit) and your computer’s specifications.
Create a Bootable USB Drive
To install Ubuntu, you’ll need to create a bootable USB drive. You can use tools like Rufus (for Windows) or BalenaEtcher (for macOS and Linux) to achieve this. Insert your USB drive, open the tool, select the Ubuntu ISO file, and follow the on-screen instructions to create the bootable USB.
Boot from the USB Drive
Once the bootable USB drive is ready, restart your computer and enter the BIOS or UEFI settings. Set the USB drive as the primary boot device. Save the changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI.
Start the Ubuntu Installation
Upon restarting, your computer will boot from the USB drive, and you’ll be greeted by the Ubuntu installation screen. Select “Install Ubuntu” to begin the installation process.
Choose Installation Options
When you reach this step, the Ubuntu installer will present you with several options to configure before proceeding with the installation. Here’s a breakdown of each option.
Language
Choose your preferred language for the Ubuntu installation. This setting determines the language used in the installer and, later, the default language for your Ubuntu system.
Keyboard Layout
Select your keyboard layout to ensure that the keys function correctly. The installer provides a detection tool to help you set up the right layout, or you can manually choose it from a list.
Updates and Other Software
Ubuntu gives you the option to download updates and install third-party software during the installation process. Enabling these options ensures that your system is up-to-date and includes necessary drivers and codecs for various media formats. It’s generally a good idea to keep these options selected.
Installation Type
This is a crucial step, and you’ll be presented with different options based on your disk configuration. The three main options are:
Erase Disk and Install Ubuntu
This option will erase the entire disk and install Ubuntu. It’s suitable if you want to use the entire disk for Ubuntu and do not need any other operating system on your machine.
Install Ubuntu Alongside [your existing operating system]
If you have another operating system installed, like Windows, this option allows you to create a dual-boot system. You can allocate space for Ubuntu without affecting your existing OS.
Something Else
This option provides advanced users with manual control over the partitioning of the disk. You can create, delete, and modify partitions as needed. This is useful if you have specific partitioning requirements.
If you choose “Something Else,” you’ll need to be familiar with disk partitions and filesystems. Ensure you have a backup of your data before making any changes.
Installation Location
If you selected the “Erase Disk and Install Ubuntu” or “Install Ubuntu Alongside” option, this screen will display the disk and partition layout. Confirm that the correct disk is selected for installation, and if you’re using the “Install Alongside” option, allocate the desired amount of space for Ubuntu.
Who Are You
This is where you create your user account. Enter your name, a username, and a strong password. You’ll also be prompted to enter a computer name and choose whether to encrypt your home folder for added security.
Once you’ve configured these options, you can proceed with the installation by clicking “Install.” The installer will then copy the necessary files to your hard drive and configure the system based on your selections.
Create a User Account
Set up your user account by entering your name, username, and password. You’ll also be asked to choose a computer name. Ensure that you pick a strong password and consider encrypting your home folder for added security.
Complete the Installation
Once you’ve configured all the settings, click “Install” to begin the installation process. This may take some time, so be patient. Once completed, you’ll be prompted to remove the installation media and press Enter to restart your computer.
Post-Installation Setup
After the restart, Ubuntu will boot from your hard drive. Log in with the credentials you set during the installation process. Update your system using the Software Updater to ensure you have the latest security patches and software updates.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed Ubuntu 22.04.3 on your desktop computer. Explore the intuitive desktop environment, discover the vast software repository, and enjoy the freedom and flexibility that Ubuntu provides.
Note: This process will generally work for any version of Ubuntu, but the steps may change slightly between versions. Also, you can use this process for other Debian-based versions of Linux; just know that once again, the process may vary somewhat. The general idea is the same, though.