Install Linux without CD or USB: Step-by-Step Guide
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Downloading Linux Distribution
- Creating Partitions
- Formatting the Partition
- Downloading USB Installation Tools
- Creating Bootable Partition
- Disabling Secure Boot in BIOS
- Booting from Ubuntu Installer
- Installing Ubuntu on Dual Boot
- Changing UEFI Boot Order
- Conclusion
How to Install Linux Without CD, DVD, or USB: A Step-by-Step Guide
Are you looking to install Linux on your computer but don't have a CD, DVD, or USB drive? Don't worry, we've got you covered. In this article, we will walk you through the process of installing Linux without the need for any external storage devices.
Introduction
Linux is an open-source operating system that offers a wide range of benefits, such as enhanced security, customization options, and a vast selection of software. Installing Linux alongside your existing operating system, commonly known as dual booting, allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds. Let's dive into the installation process and get Linux up and running on your computer.
Downloading Linux Distribution
Before we begin, you first need to download your preferred Linux distribution. For the purpose of this guide, we will be using Ubuntu 20.10. Visit the official Ubuntu website, navigate to the downloads section, and choose the appropriate version for your system. Once the download is complete, you're ready to proceed.
Creating Partitions
To prepare your system for the Linux installation, we need to create two partitions - one for the bootable Linux files and another for the Linux system itself. Follow the steps below to create these partitions:
- Open File Explorer and right-click on "This PC" (or "My Computer").
- Select "Manage" to open the Computer Management window.
- Go to "Storage" and click on "Disk Management."
- Shrink your existing partition to create unallocated space for the Linux partitions.
- Right-click on the unallocated space and select "New Simple Volume" to create a new partition.
- Repeat the above step to create the second partition for the Linux system.
- Format the partition where you will place the Linux installer.
Formatting the Partition
After creating the partitions, it's essential to format the partition where you will store the Linux installer. Follow the instructions below to format the partition:
- Download the Universal USB Installation Tools, which will help us make the partition bootable.
- Open the tool and select the Linux distribution you downloaded earlier.
- Choose the downloaded Ubuntu ISO file.
- Click on "Show All Drives" to view the partition where you copied the Ubuntu installer.
- Click on "Create" to start the formatting process.
- Confirm the action by selecting "Yes" and wait for the process to complete.
Now that your installation partition is ready, it's time to move on to the next step - booting from it to install Ubuntu.
Downloading USB Installation Tools
To boot from the installation partition and install Ubuntu, we need to disable secure boot in the BIOS settings. Here's how you can do it:
- Restart your computer and access the BIOS settings. The method may vary depending on your computer brand, so refer to the list of common boot keys associated with different brands.
- Go to the "Advanced" settings and disable secure boot.
- Save your configuration and exit the BIOS.
Next, we need to access the boot menu and select the Ubuntu installation partition.
Booting from Ubuntu Installer
To boot from the Ubuntu installation partition, follow these steps:
- Restart your computer.
- Access the boot menu using the specific boot key for your computer brand.
- Select the EFI file option and choose the partition where you copied the Ubuntu installer.
- Navigate to the "EFI" folder and select "Boot".
- Choose "bootx64.efi" to boot from the Ubuntu installer.
With the Ubuntu installer booted up, we can now proceed to install Ubuntu on a dual boot configuration.
Installing Ubuntu on Dual Boot
Follow the steps below to install Ubuntu on a dual boot setup:
- Click on "Install Ubuntu" from the installer menu.
- Choose your preferred keyboard layout and click "Continue".
- Select the starting applications and proceed.
- Choose the partition you previously created for the Linux system.
- Create a new partition by clicking on the "+" sign.
- Click "Continue" to apply the changes.
- Confirm the action by clicking "Continue" on the prompt asking to write changes to disks.
- Configure the time zone and create a user account.
- Click "Continue" to start the Ubuntu installation process.
- Once the installation is complete, restart your computer.
Congratulations! You have successfully installed Ubuntu 20.10 on your computer. However, to boot into Ubuntu, we need to change the UEFI boot order.
Changing UEFI Boot Order
By default, the UEFI firmware is configured to boot first into the Windows Boot Manager. To prioritize the Ubuntu bootloader (GNU GRUB), follow these steps:
- Access the BIOS settings of your computer.
- Look for the boot order settings.
- Move the Ubuntu bootloader (GNU GRUB) to the first position in the boot order.
- Save your changes and exit the BIOS.
You can now enjoy the benefits of dual booting with Ubuntu running alongside your existing Windows installation.
Conclusion
In this guide, we have learned how to install Linux without the use of a CD, DVD, or USB drive. By following the step-by-step instructions, you can successfully set up Ubuntu 20.10 on your computer and enjoy the flexibility and power of the Linux operating system. Happy computing!
Highlights:
- Learn how to install Linux without CD, DVD, or USB
- Step-by-step guide for installing Ubuntu 20.10 on dual boot
- Create partitions, format the installation partition, and boot from it
- Disable secure boot in BIOS and change UEFI boot order
- Enjoy the benefits of dual booting with Ubuntu and Windows
FAQ
Q: Is it possible to install Linux without a CD, DVD, or USB?
A: Yes, it is possible to install Linux without external storage devices by creating a bootable partition on your computer.
Q: Can I install Ubuntu alongside Windows on the same computer?
A: Absolutely! Dual booting allows you to have both Ubuntu and Windows operating systems on the same machine.
Q: Will installing Ubuntu affect my existing Windows installation?
A: Installing Ubuntu on a dual boot setup should not affect your existing Windows installation. However, it's always recommended to back up your important data before making any changes to your system.
Q: Can I switch between Ubuntu and Windows easily after installation?
A: Yes, during the boot process, you will be presented with a boot menu where you can choose whether to boot into Ubuntu or Windows.
Q: Can I uninstall Ubuntu if I no longer want it on my computer?
A: Yes, you can uninstall Ubuntu by removing the Linux partitions and restoring the Windows bootloader as the default option.
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