How to Install Ubuntu on a PC – A Simple Guide for Beginners

Ubuntu is a free and user-friendly Linux-based operating system. It’s great for everyday use like browsing the internet, writing documents, watching videos, and more. If you’re tired of Windows or want a faster, more stable computer, Ubuntu might be the perfect solution.

This guide will walk you through how to install Ubuntu on your PC — no technical knowledge required.

What You’ll Need

  1. A computer
    You can use a new or old computer. Just make sure you’re okay with replacing (or dual-booting with) the current operating system.

  2. A USB flash drive
    At least 4GB in size (8GB recommended).

  3. Internet access
    To download Ubuntu and Rufus.

Step 1: Download Ubuntu

  1. Go to the official Ubuntu website:
    https://ubuntu.com/download

  2. Under “Ubuntu Desktop”, click Download.

  3. Choose the latest LTS (Long-Term Support) version — it’s the most stable for most users.

Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive with Ubuntu

You need to “burn” the Ubuntu ISO file onto the USB drive in a bootable format. This isn’t the same as just copying the file — you’ll use a tool called Rufus.

For Windows users:

  1. Download Rufus from:
    https://rufus.ie

  2. Insert your USB flash drive into the computer.

  3. Open Rufus. It should automatically detect your USB.

  4. In Rufus:

    • Under Device, select your USB flash drive.
    • Under Boot selection, click SELECT and choose the Ubuntu ISO file you downloaded.
    • Leave the other settings as they are (Rufus will choose the right defaults).
    • File System: FAT32 (for best compatibility).
    • Partition scheme: GPT for modern UEFI-based computers or MBR for older BIOS systems.

  5. Click START.

  6. If asked about writing mode, choose ISO Image Mode (Recommended).

  7. Wait until the process completes. It may take a few minutes.

⚠️ Warning: All data on the USB will be erased.

Step 3: Boot From the USB Drive

  1. Shut down your computer.

  2. Power it on again and immediately press the Boot Menu key. This varies by manufacturer:

    • Dell: F12
    • HP: ESC or F9
    • Lenovo: F12 or Enter + F1
    • Asus/Acer: F2 or ESC

  3. In the boot menu, select your USB drive.

Step 4: Install Ubuntu

  1. After booting, Ubuntu will load. You’ll see the welcome screen.

  2. Click “Install Ubuntu”.

  3. Choose your language and keyboard layout.

  4. Follow the installation steps:

    • Normal Installation is recommended (includes browser, office software, etc.).
    • Choose Erase disk and install Ubuntu to replace Windows (⚠️ this deletes everything).
    • Or choose Install Ubuntu alongside Windows to create a dual-boot setup.

  5. Set your time zone, name, username, and password.

  6. Click Install Now and confirm the changes.

  7. Wait while Ubuntu installs (about 10–20 minutes depending on your system).

Step 5: Restart and Enjoy Ubuntu

  1. Once the installation finishes, click Restart Now.

  2. When prompted, remove the USB drive, then press Enter.

  3. Your computer will reboot into Ubuntu — ready to use!

Summary

Installing Ubuntu is easier than you might think. With a few simple steps, you can switch to a modern, fast, and secure operating system — all for free.

Ubuntu includes:

  • A web browser (Firefox or Chromium)
  • Email client
  • Office software (LibreOffice)
  • Software Center to install apps (like Zoom, VLC, Spotify)