Your Comprehensive Ubuntu Installation Guide in 11 Easy Steps

4 min readNov 27, 2023

Exploring the diverse world of Linux distributions might seem daunting, but fear not! In my previous article, I highlighted the Linux ecosystem’s gem—Ubuntu.

Ubuntu Linux stands tall as a beloved choice for organizations, enterprises, institutions, and home setups alike. It’s not just user-friendly and easy to install; it’s often the first stop for Linux beginners. The best part? It’s open-source, secure, and entirely free to download!

But can you really install an operating system? Absolutely! If you’ve mastered installing applications, installing Linux is a breeze. No magic spells or wizardry are required. Even if you’re a Linux newcomer, I’ve got your back. Ready for the plunge?

Preparing for Installation

Before embarking on your Ubuntu installation journey, let’s ensure everything’s in order:

Hardware Requirements

2 GHz dual-core processor or better
Minimum 4 GB of RAM
At least 25 GB of available disk space
USB port and a USB stick (minimum 4 GB capacity)

Compatibility Check

Verify that your computer meets the following specifications:

2 GHz dual-core processor
4 gigabytes of RAM
25 gigabytes of hard drive space
A USB port or DVD drive

Bootable Media Preparation

Ensure you have:

USB flash drive or writable DVD
Bootable disk or USB drive for Linux installation (USB requires at least 12 GB)
Power Source
Connect your laptop to a power source during installation.

Storage Space

Confirm your computer has at least 25 GB of free storage space (5 GB for minimal installation).

Installation Medium

Have a DVD or a USB flash drive (8GB or higher) with your desired Ubuntu version.

Note: Always prioritize data safety with a recent backup.

Installing Ubuntu — Wiping Out the Old OS

For a clean Ubuntu desktop installation, wiping the slate clean is the way to go. It ensures maximum performance and stability, especially for casual users.

1. Download Ubuntu OS from the Official Directory

Visit https://www.ubuntu.com/download/desktop to access the download page and click “Download [version number].”

If the download doesn’t start automatically, click “Download Now” at the top.

2. Create a Bootable USB

Use UNetbootin to burn the Ubuntu .iso image onto a USB drive:

Download the Ubuntu image from the official release page.
Download and install UNetbootin.
Insert the USB stick, open UNetbootin, select Diskimage, choose the .iso image, and burn it.

3. Install Ubuntu OS from the USB

Insert the Ubuntu DVD or plug in the USB drive.
Restart your computer.
Upon booting, choose to try Ubuntu or proceed with the installation.

4. Select Your Keyboard Layout

Click “Install Ubuntu,” choose your keyboard layout, and click “Continue.”

5. Enable Third-Party Software

On the next screen, check “Install third-party software for graphics and Wi-Fi..." for codec support. Choose between “normal” and “minimal” installations; I recommend “normal” for a richer set of utilities.