Learning how to install Linux is one of the best decisions you can make if you want a fast, secure, and free operating system. Linux is widely used by developers, students, businesses, and everyday users because it’s powerful, customizable, and works well even on older computers.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to install Linux step by step, even if you’ve never used Linux before. Everything is explained in simple language, so you can install Linux confidently without fear of breaking your system.
What Is Linux?
Before learning how to install Linux, it’s important to understand what Linux actually is.
Linux is an open-source operating system that acts as an alternative to Windows and macOS. It’s based on the Linux kernel and comes in different versions called distributions (or distros).
Why Linux Is Popular
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Free and open source
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Highly secure
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Lightweight and fast
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Large community support
Linux can be used for daily tasks, programming, servers, and learning purposes.
Why You Should Install Linux
Many users search for how to install Linux because of the benefits it offers.
Key Benefits of Linux
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No license cost
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Fewer viruses and malware
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Regular updates
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Better performance on old PCs
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Full control over your system
Linux is ideal for users who want freedom and stability.
Which Linux Distribution Should You Choose?
Best Linux Distributions for Beginners
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Ubuntu – Most popular and beginner-friendly
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Linux Mint – Windows-like interface
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Zorin OS – Easy transition from Windows
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Pop!_OS – Great for developers
Ubuntu and Linux Mint are highly recommended if you’re new.
Things to Do Before Installing Linux
Preparation is very important before starting to install Linux.
What You’ll Need
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A computer (Windows or empty system)
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USB flash drive (8GB or more)
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Linux ISO file
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Backup of important files
Important Notes
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Installing Linux may modify disk partitions
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Backup data to avoid accidental loss
How to Download Linux ISO File
An ISO file contains the Linux installation files.
Steps to Download Linux ISO
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Visit the official Linux distro website
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Choose your preferred version
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Download the ISO file
Always download Linux from official sources to avoid security risks.
How to Create a Bootable Linux USB
To proceed with how to install Linux, you need a bootable USB.
Tools to Create Bootable USB
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Rufus (Windows)
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balenaEtcher
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UNetbootin
Steps Using Rufus
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Insert the USB drive
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Open Rufus
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Select Linux ISO file
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Choose partition scheme (GPT or MBR)
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Click Start
Once completed, your USB is ready for Linux installation.
How to Boot From a USB Drive
Booting from USB is required to install Linux.
Steps to Boot From USB
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Insert a bootable USB
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Restart the computer
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Press Boot Menu key (F12, ESC, DEL, F8)
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Select USB device
Your system will now load the Linux installer.
How to Install Linux Alongside Windows (Dual Boot)
This is the most common installation method.
Steps to Install Linux with Windows
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Choose Install Linux
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Select Install alongside Windows
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Allocate disk space
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Choose a time zone
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Create a user account
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Start installation
This option allows you to choose Windows or Linux at startup.
If you want Linux only, follow this method.
Steps
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Start Linux installer
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Choose Erase disk and install Linux
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Confirm disk selection
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Create a user account
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Complete installation
⚠️ This will delete all existing data on the disk.
How Long Does Linux Installation Take?
Linux installation is usually quick.
Average Installation Time
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10–20 minutes on SSD
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20–30 minutes on HDD
The time may vary depending on system speed.
What Happens After Linux Installation?
Once installation finishes:
After Installation
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Remove the USB drive
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Restart your computer
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Log in tothe Linux desktop
You’ll see the Linux desktop environment ready to use.
Basic Things to Do After Installing Linux
Completing how to install Linux doesn’t end here.
Post-Installation Tasks
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Update the system
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Install software updates
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Enable firewall
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Install essential apps
Keeping Linux updated ensures security and performance.
Common Problems When Installing Linux
Linux Not Booting
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Disable Secure Boot
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Check boot order
Black Screen After Install
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Update graphics drivers
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Try recovery mode
WiFi Not Working
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Install additional drivers
These issues are common and fixable.
Is Linux Safe to Install?
Yes, Linux is very safe.
Safety Benefits
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Strong permission system
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Rare malware threats
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Open-source transparency
Linux is trusted by millions worldwide.
Linux Installation Requirements
Linux runs on most hardware.
Minimum Requirements
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2GB RAM (4GB recommended)
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25GB storage
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64-bit processor
Linux works well even on older systems.
FAQs About How to Install Linux
How to install Linux on a Windows computer?
Create a bootable USB and choose “Install alongside Windows” during setup.
How to install Linux without deleting Windows?
Select the dual-boot option and allocate disk space safely.
How to install Linux on an old PC?
Choose lightweight distros like Linux Mint or Lubuntu.
Is Linux free to install?
Yes, Linux is completely free.
Can I uninstall Linux later?
Conclusion
Learning how to install Linux opens the door to a powerful, secure, and flexible operating system. Whether you install Linux alongside Windows or as the only OS, the process is simpler than most people expect.
By following this guide step by step, you can confidently install Linux and start exploring its features without fear. Once you understand how to install Linux, you’ll realize why millions of users trust it every day.
