How to Install Ubuntu on Your Desktop (Laptop or PC)

How to Install Ubuntu: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Choosing which Linux distribution to install can feel overwhelming, as there are many versions to choose from — each offering very different features. One of the most popular and beginner-friendly options is Ubuntu.

It’s arguably one of the best Linux distributions available today. Ubuntu is easy to use, highly customizable, and scalable according to the user’s needs.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the two main methods of installing Ubuntu with a graphical interface (GUI) on your PC or laptop.We’ll also go over the system requirements and all the necessary setup steps.

🖥️ System Requirements for Installing Ubuntu Desktop

Before installing Ubuntu Desktop, make sure your computer meets the following requirements:

• Dual-core processor, at least 2 GHz or faster

• At least 4 GB of RAM

• 25 GB of free disk space

• USB port and a USB drive with at least 4 GB of storage

⚠️ Note: These installation methods apply only to desktop computers. They are not suitable for VPS users, as we’re installing Ubuntu with a graphical interface.If you prefer a command-line environment, consider using a VPS solution instead.

🔁 Method 1: Installing Ubuntu by Erasing the Old Operating System

Wiping your hard drive completely is the cleanest way to install Ubuntu Desktop.This process removes all files from your previous OS and installs a fresh version of Ubuntu.

Here’s a quick comparison between installing Ubuntu on a virtual machine (VM) and physical hardware:

Feature	Ubuntu on VM	Ubuntu on Physical Hardware
Scalability	Can run multiple Ubuntu instances simultaneously	Can run one Ubuntu installation
Support	Requires virtualization support from hardware	Works on a wide range of hardware
Performance	Slower, depends on the host system	Faster, runs directly on the hardware
Development	Ideal for testing and development environments	Reinstallation needed for major reconfigurations

✅ In summary: Installing Ubuntu on a VM is great for testing or development.Installing it on hardware is better for regular use due to better performance and stability.

Step 1: Download Ubuntu ISO from the Official Directory

First, download the official Ubuntu ISO file from the Ubuntu website.

You can also choose other variants such as Ubuntu Server or Ubuntu flavors, but the main Ubuntu Desktop version includes everything beginners need.

Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive

After downloading the ISO file, create a bootable USB drive using software like Rufus.We recommend the portable version, as it doesn’t require installation and runs instantly.

⚙️ Partition Scheme Tip: Choose GPT for modern computers. Choose MBR for older ones.

⚠️ Important: Creating a bootable USB will erase all data on it. Make sure to back up any important files beforehand.

Wait about 10 minutes, and your bootable USB drive will be ready.

Step 3: Install Ubuntu from the USB Drive

With your bootable USB prepared, restart your computer and enter the BIOS.Usually, you can access it by pressing DEL or F2 during startup.

💡 Pro Tip: Missed the BIOS screen? Just restart your computer and try again.

Inside the BIOS, locate the Boot Order menu and set your USB drive as the first boot option. Save the changes and exit — the Ubuntu installer should start shortly after rebooting.

Once it begins, follow the steps in the Ubuntu Installer section below.

💿 Method 2: Installing Ubuntu on Windows Using VirtualBox

If you don’t want to erase your current operating system, use VirtualBox to install Ubuntu inside a virtual machine.This creates an isolated environment, leaving your main system untouched.

This method is perfect for users who want to test Linux or experiment with Ubuntu software safely.

💡 Pro Tip: You can install Ubuntu alongside other OSs on the same computer using this method.

Step 1: Download and Install VirtualBox

Download the latest version of Oracle VirtualBox and follow the installation steps.When prompted about network interfaces, click Yes.Your internet connection might temporarily disconnect during setup — this is normal.

Step 2: Create a New Virtual Machine and Mount the Ubuntu ISO

After installation, open VirtualBox and click New to create a new virtual machine.

Enter a name and allocate RAM. It’s recommended to assign half of your system’s RAM (e.g., 4 GB if your computer has 8 GB).

Next, choose to create a virtual hard disk with dynamically allocated storage (saves space by expanding as needed).

After creating the VM, you’ll see a boot error — this just means you need to mount the Ubuntu ISO.

Go to Settings → Storage, select Controller: IDE, and attach the downloaded Ubuntu ISO file.

Once done, start the VM — the Ubuntu installer will launch after a short load time.

⚙️ Proceeding with the Ubuntu Installer

When Ubuntu boots, you’ll see two options:

• Try Ubuntu

• Install Ubuntu

Choose Install Ubuntu.

You can also try Ubuntu first — this runs it temporarily without changing your files.

Next:

• Choose your language and keyboard layout.

• Select Normal Installation (recommended).This includes useful software and system tools.

• Enable the option to Download Updates While Installing Ubuntu for the latest version.

Then, select Erase Disk and Install Ubuntu as the installation type.Confirm partitioning, choose your time zone, and set your name, username, and password.

The installation process takes about 20 minutes.Once complete, restart your computer — you’ll see Ubuntu’s default welcome screen.

🎉 Conclusion

Because of its simplicity, stability, and versatility, Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux distributions for both beginners and professionals.

In this tutorial, we covered:

• The requirements to install Ubuntu on a desktop computer

• How to create a bootable USB drive with Rufus

• How to install Ubuntu natively by erasing the old operating system

• How to install Ubuntu using VirtualBox on Windows

With these steps, you should now be ready to install and start using Ubuntu confidently.If you have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments section below.

Stuffy @ HolyHosting