Installing Ubuntu from a USB drive is the standard method for getting Ubuntu onto any computer, whether you are doing a fresh install or creating a dual boot.
Before you start, back up your data. The installation process may erase existing files on the drive depending on the installation type you choose.
Quick Answer
Download the Ubuntu ISO, flash it to an 8 GB USB drive with Rufus, boot from the USB, then follow the installer to configure language, timezone, and account.
System Requirements
Your system must meet the following minimum requirements before installing Ubuntu. If specs fall short, consider upgrading hardware or trying a lighter Ubuntu flavor.
| Processor | Dual-core 2 GHz |
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Hard Drive | 25 GB free space |
Step 1: Download the Ubuntu ISO File
Download the Ubuntu ISO from the official Ubuntu website. The LTS version is recommended because it receives five years of updates and security patches.
On the download page you will see the LTS version with five years of support and the current release with nine months. Click the green Download button to start.
Step 2: Create a Bootable Ubuntu USB Drive with Rufus
A bootable USB is required to install Ubuntu. Rufus is the most reliable tool for creating one on Windows. You will need a USB drive with at least 8 GB free.
Step 2.1: Download and Install Rufus
Download Rufus from rufus.ie. In the Download section, click any version listed to download the portable executable. No installation is required to run Rufus.
Step 2.2: Flash the Ubuntu ISO to Your USB Drive
Insert your USB drive and open Rufus. It will automatically detect and select your drive. If multiple drives are connected, pick the correct one from Device.
Click the Select button next to Boot selection and browse to the Ubuntu ISO file you downloaded. Leave all other settings at their defaults, then click Start.
Step 3: Boot Your Computer from the USB Drive
Insert the bootable USB and restart your computer. In most cases the Ubuntu installer launches automatically without any BIOS changes needed.
If the installer does not appear, enter BIOS by pressing F10, F12, F2, or Esc at startup and set the USB drive as the first boot device in Boot Order.
Step 4: Complete the Ubuntu Installation
When the computer boots from the USB, you will see the Ubuntu boot screen. Select Try or Install Ubuntu to proceed to the installer welcome screen.
Choose Language and Accessibility Settings
On the language screen, select English or your preferred language and click Next. Click Next again on the accessibility screen to continue to the next step.
Select Try Ubuntu or Install Ubuntu
Try Ubuntu lets you test the OS without any changes. Install Ubuntu begins a permanent installation and may erase your drive. Choose Install Ubuntu to proceed.
Connect to the Internet and Choose Installation Type
On the Connect to the Internet screen, choose Wi-Fi, a wired connection, or select the offline option. Connecting is recommended to download drivers and updates.
Choose Default Installation for a minimal setup with a browser and basic tools, or Full Installation for office apps, media players, and additional utilities.
Check both boxes under Other Options to install updates and third-party software during setup. This saves time after installation is complete.
Select Installation Type and Disk Partitioning
Select Erase disk and install Ubuntu to do a clean install on the whole drive. If another OS is already installed, you can choose Install alongside it for dual boot.
In the Ready to Install section, review the disk partitions and devices, then click Install to begin writing Ubuntu to the drive. This step is not reversible.
Set Up Time Zone and User Account
Select your time zone on the map and click Next. Ubuntu uses this for the system clock and scheduled task timing. You can change it later in Settings.
Enter your name, a computer name, a username, and a strong password in the account fields. Click Next to proceed to the theme selection screen.
Choose a Theme and Complete the Installation
Choose Light or Dark as your preferred desktop theme and click Next. Ubuntu will begin copying files to your drive and complete the installation automatically.
The installation may take several minutes depending on your hardware speed. Do not restart or unplug the USB drive until the installer has finished completely.