💿 3: Installing Linux — A Beginner’s Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to dive into Linux for real? Let’s get your first system up and running!

Installing Linux might sound scary if you’ve never done it before — but don’t worry. It’s way easier than it used to be, and we’ll walk you through each step.

🛠️ Tip: If you want to follow along with bonus video tutorials and exercises, check out the full beginner kit at raspbian.io.

🧰 What You’ll Need

• A USB flash drive (8GB or more)
• A computer to install Linux on
• A downloaded Linux ISO file (Ubuntu, Mint, or your chosen distro)
• A tool to create a bootable USB:
• Windows/Mac: Balena Etcher
• Advanced Users: Rufus

🖥️ Step-by-Step Installation

Step 1: Download Your Distro

Go to the official website of the distro you want (e.g., ubuntu.com) and download the latest version.

Step 2: Create a Bootable USB

1. Open Etcher
2. Select the ISO file
3. Choose your USB drive
4. Click “Flash!”

Etcher will do all the heavy lifting and safely create a bootable Linux installer.

Step 3: Boot from the USB

1. Insert the USB into your target computer
2. Reboot and enter the BIOS/boot menu (usually F12, Esc, or Del)
3. Select the USB drive as the boot option

You’ll see the Linux welcome screen. Choose “Try” or “Install”.

Step 4: Choose Installation Type

You’ll be prompted with options like:

• Install alongside Windows (dual boot)
• Erase disk and install Linux (full install)
• Manual partitioning (advanced)

If you’re just getting started, “Erase disk and install” (on a test machine) or “Install alongside Windows” are the safest bets.

Step 5: Follow the Setup Wizard

• Pick your region and language
• Create your username and password
• Let it install! This takes about 10–20 minutes

🚀 After Installation: First Things to Do

• Update your system:
  “`bash
  sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade