Today, we are considering a transition from Windows to Linux, the third most widely used desktop operating system globally, after Windows and macOS. For those unfamiliar with Linux, I recommend watching this informative video >>
It provides insights that can assist in deciding whether to install Linux or not.
For those who are already familiar with Linux and are considering installing it, here’s a detailed guide to help you successfully install Linux on your computer.
Prerequisites:
- USB Drive
- Internet Connection
Steps:
1. Retrieve Windows Activation Key:
To retain your Windows activation key for potential future use, open the terminal as an administrator and run the following command:
wmic path softwarelicensingservice get OA3xOriginalProductKeyCopy the output from the terminal and securely save it.
2. Download Ubuntu and Rufus Software:
Ubuntu, a popular and user-friendly Linux distribution, can be downloaded from Ubuntu’s official website. Ensure a patient download due to the large file size (around 5GB).
The second tool we need to download is Rufus, a program for creating a Bootable USB drive. Visit the official website, scroll down until you find the download option. I recommend downloading the Portable version of the software.
3. Creating a Bootable USB Drive:
Launch Rufus by double-clicking on the downloaded software.
Insert your USB drive and click on “Select” to browse and choose the downloaded Ubuntu ISO file.
Click “Start” to initiate the process. Wait for Rufus to complete the bootable USB creation, which may take a few minutes.
— Once completed, Rufus will indicate READY with a green background.
4. BIOS Settings:
Boot your computer into BIOS mode.
To access the BIOS, first, power off your computer and wait a few seconds. Then, press the power button and immediately press the key corresponding to your PC model for entering the BIOS.
If you’re unsure how to boot your computer into the BIOS, a quick solution is to search online. For example, you can use a search query like: “How to boot HP Laptop into BIOS mode.”
— Once you are inside the BIOS mode, Locate the USB boot and Secure boot options. Enable USB boot and disable Secure boot.
— Save changes and exit. Your computer will restart automatically.
5. Access Boot Menu:
Immediately press the designated key (usually F9 or F12) during the boot process to access the boot menu. (and make sure your Bootable Pendrive is inserted)
6. Booting from USB:
After booting into the boot menu, Choose the USB drive option and press Enter. Your computer will boot into the bootable pendrive.
7. Ubuntu Setup:
Upon reaching the screen, select “Try or Install Ubuntu.”
Follow the setup process, selecting system language and keyboard layout.
— Choose “Install Ubuntu” and opt for the full installation to include essential software packages.
— Select “Erase disk and install Ubuntu” (Note: This will erase all data, including Windows OS).
—The installation will start, and it’ll take a few minutes. Once it’s done, just click the Restart now button.
8. Completion:
— Your computer will restart into Ubuntu, marking the successful installation.
So, after that quick restart, you’re officially part of the Ubuntu club! 🎉 This guide made sure you had a smooth ride into Ubuntu, the cool kid on the Linux block.
Feel free to explore, click around, and make yourself at home in Ubuntu-land. If you prefer a video guide on how to install Linux on a Windows computer, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a detailed and step-by-step video guide to assist you throughout the entire installation process. Feel free to check it out this video
We hope you find it helpful in making the Linux installation on your Windows system smooth and easy to understand.
Cheers to your tech adventure! 🚀