For many, installing an operating system might seem intimidating, but Linux actually offers one of the easiest installations available. Many Linux distributions come with a "Live" version that allows you to test the OS directly from a CD/DVD or USB flash drive without altering your hard drive. Once you've tried it out and are ready to commit, simply double-click the “Install” icon and follow the steps in the installation wizard.
Installation Steps (Example: Ubuntu Linux)
Preparation: Ensure your computer meets system requirements, and optionally select to install third-party software like MP3 and video codecs.
Wireless Setup (if needed): Connect to a network to allow the installer to download updates and third-party software.
Hard Drive Allocation: Decide how to install Linux:
Dual Boot alongside another OS
Use the Entire Disk to replace any existing OS
Upgrade or install over an existing Linux installation.
Location: Select your location on the map to set the time zone and locale.
Keyboard Layout: Choose the correct keyboard layout for your system.
User Setup: Create your username and set a password.
After completing these steps, reboot your machine, and your Linux system will be ready to use.
Guide to Installing Ubuntu 24.04 LTS on VirtualBox (Windows 11)
1. Introduction
Install Ubuntu 24.04 LTS on Windows 11 using VirtualBox.
VirtualBox allows multiple operating systems to run virtually on a host OS.
2. Install VirtualBox
Download: Open a browser, search "VirtualBox," and select the link from
virtualbox.org
.Installation: Download the Windows host
.exe
file, then run it and follow the on-screen instructions to install.
3. Download Ubuntu ISO
Open your browser, search "Ubuntu download," and select the link from
ubuntu.com
.Choose "Desktop" and download the latest Ubuntu 24.04 LTS ISO file (~6GB).
4. Create a Virtual Machine in VirtualBox
Open VirtualBox and select "New" to create a virtual machine.
Name & OS Type: Name your VM (e.g., "Ubuntu 24.04 LTS"). VirtualBox will auto-detect Linux as the OS type.
Memory & Processor:
Allocate memory (RAM) to the VM up to the green limit.
Assign processors (e.g., 4 CPUs) as per system capacity.
Virtual Hard Disk:
Select "Create a virtual hard disk now."
Set the size (e.g., 100 GB) as dynamically allocated (won’t occupy full space immediately).
5. Configure VM Settings
General: Enable "Shared Clipboard" and "Drag and Drop" as "Bidirectional."
Storage:
- Select "Empty" under Controller and add the downloaded Ubuntu ISO file.
Network: Choose "Use wired connection" (required for VirtualBox).
6. Start Installation
Click "Start" in VirtualBox to begin the installation.
Select "Try or Install Ubuntu" and press Enter.
7. Ubuntu Installation Steps
Language: Select the default or your preferred language.
Accessibility: Leave settings as default unless specific options are needed.
Keyboard Layout: Choose your layout (e.g., German, English).
Internet Connection: Select "Use a wired connection."
Installation Type:
- Choose "Erase disk and install Ubuntu" (does not affect the host OS).
Software: Select "Install recommended proprietary software" for third-party support.
8. Create a User Account
Enter a username, computer name, and password.
Set password requirements as desired, then continue.
9. Complete Installation
Review settings and click "Install."
After installation, restart the VM and log in with your username and password.
10. Post-Installation Setup
Welcome Tour: Choose to take the tour or skip it.
Ubuntu Improvement Program: Optionally disable data sharing.
11. Ubuntu Ready to Use
- Ubuntu 24.04 LTS is now successfully installed and ready on your VirtualBox on Windows 11.
Alright, folks, we’ve successfully wrapped up our Linux installation adventure! From understanding the methods to actually installing Ubuntu 24.04 LTS on our Windows machines, we’ve nailed it like pros.
But the fun doesn’t stop here! Next up, we’re diving into the Basics of Linux Commands—the real magic that makes Linux so powerful and exciting. So, gear up for the next leg of our journey, and I’ll catch you there with more learning and a whole lot of fun.
Until next time, keep coding, automating, and advancing in DevOps! 😁
Peace out ✌️