How to Install Ubuntu on Your PC: Step-by-Step Guide 2025

Are you ready to switch to a powerful, open-source operating system? Learning how to install Ubuntu on your PC is a fantastic way to dive into the world of Linux. Whether you’re a developer, a tech enthusiast, or simply tired of traditional operating systems like Windows or macOS, Ubuntu offers a lightweight, customizable, and free alternative. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of installing Ubuntu on your computer, step by step.

By the end of this article, you’ll know how to download Ubuntu, create a bootable USB drive, configure your BIOS, and complete the installation. We’ll also cover common troubleshooting tips and system requirements to ensure a smooth experience. Let’s get started with this beginner-friendly tutorial on Ubuntu installation!

Why Choose Ubuntu for Your PC?

Before we dive into the Ubuntu installation guide, let’s briefly explore why Ubuntu is a top choice for millions of users worldwide. Ubuntu is a Linux distribution known for its stability, security, and user-friendly interface. It’s perfect for coding, server management, or everyday computing. Plus, it’s completely free and supported by a massive community. Ready to install Ubuntu? Let’s move on to the prerequisites.

What You’ll Need Before Installing Ubuntu

To successfully install Ubuntu on your PC, gather the following:

A computer with at least 4GB of RAM (8GB recommended) and 25GB of free disk space.
A USB drive with at least 4GB capacity.
An internet connection to download the Ubuntu ISO file.
A tool like Rufus or Etcher to create a bootable USB drive.
About 30-60 minutes of uninterrupted time.

Once you have these ready, you’re set to begin the Ubuntu setup process.

Step 1: Download the Ubuntu ISO File

The first step in our Ubuntu installation tutorial is downloading the official Ubuntu ISO file. Head over to the Ubuntu official website and select the latest LTS (Long-Term Support) version, such as Ubuntu 22.04 or 24.04, depending on the current release as of March 29, 2025. LTS versions are recommended for stability and extended support.

Click the download button, and save the ISO file (approximately 3-4GB) to a location on your computer where you can easily find it.

Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive

Next, you’ll need to create a bootable USB drive to install Ubuntu. Here’s how:

Insert your USB drive into your computer.
Download and install a tool like Rufus (for Windows) or Etcher (cross-platform).
Open the tool, select your USB drive, and choose the Ubuntu ISO file you downloaded.
Click “Start” or “Flash” to write the ISO to the USB. This process may take 5-10 minutes.

Once completed, you’ll have a bootable USB ready for the Ubuntu PC installation. Both Rufus and Etcher are trusted tools, with official downloads available directly from their websites.

Step 3: Configure Your BIOS/UEFI Settings

To boot from the USB drive, you’ll need to adjust your computer’s BIOS or UEFI settings. Follow these steps:

Restart your PC and press the key to enter BIOS/UEFI (common keys include F2, F12, Delete, or Esc—check your manufacturer’s documentation).
Navigate to the “Boot” menu.
Set your USB drive as the first boot device.
Disable “Secure Boot” if it’s enabled (Ubuntu supports it, but disabling it avoids potential issues).
Save changes (usually F10) and exit.

Your PC will now restart and boot from the USB, launching the Ubuntu installer.

Step 4: Start the Ubuntu Installation Process

Once your PC boots from the USB, you’ll see the Ubuntu welcome screen. Here’s what to do:

Select “Try or Install Ubuntu” and click “Install Ubuntu” from the next screen.
Choose your language and click “Continue.”
Select your keyboard layout and proceed.
Opt for “Normal installation” (includes essential apps) or “Minimal installation” (barebones setup), then click “Continue.”

This is where the real Ubuntu setup begins!

Step 5: Partition Your Disk

Now, you’ll decide how Ubuntu will coexist with or replace your current OS:

Install Ubuntu alongside another OS: Choose this to dual-boot with Windows or another system. Ubuntu will automatically resize your partitions.
Erase disk and install Ubuntu: Select this to wipe your drive and install Ubuntu as the sole OS (back up your data first!).
Something else: For advanced users, this lets you manually partition your disk.

For beginners, “Erase disk” or “Install alongside” are the easiest options. Click “Install Now” and confirm the changes.

Step 6: Set Up Your Location and User Account

After partitioning, Ubuntu will ask for some basic info:

Select your time zone by clicking your location on the map.
Enter your name, computer name, username, and password.
Click “Continue” to start the installation.

The installer will now copy files to your disk. This may take 10-20 minutes, depending on your hardware.

Step 7: Complete the Installation

Once the installation finishes, you’ll see a prompt to restart your PC. Remove the USB drive when instructed, then click “Restart Now.” Your computer will boot into Ubuntu for the first time. Log in with the credentials you set up, and congratulations—you’ve successfully completed the Ubuntu installation on PC!

Troubleshooting Common Ubuntu Installation Issues

Encountered a hiccup? Here are solutions to common problems:

PC doesn’t boot from USB: Revisit BIOS settings and ensure the USB is the first boot device.
Graphical glitches: Boot with the “nomodeset” parameter by editing the GRUB menu (press ‘e’ at the boot screen, add “nomodeset” after “quiet splash,” then press F10).
Slow installation: Verify your USB and ISO file aren’t corrupted—re-download or re-flash if needed.

Post-Installation Tips: Getting Started with Ubuntu

Now that you’ve installed Ubuntu, here’s how to make the most of it:

Update your system: Open a terminal and run sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade to install the latest updates.
Install drivers: Go to “Software & Updates” > “Additional Drivers” to enable proprietary drivers (e.g., for NVIDIA GPUs).
Explore the Software Center: Install apps like VS Code, Firefox, or GIMP with a few clicks.

With these steps, your Ubuntu PC setup is fully optimized!

Conclusion

Installing Ubuntu on your PC is a rewarding process that opens the door to a flexible, open-source operating system. This step-by-step Ubuntu installation guide has covered everything from downloading the ISO to troubleshooting issues. Whether you’re setting up a development environment or just exploring Linux, Ubuntu is an excellent choice.

Have questions about the Ubuntu install process? Drop a comment below, and let’s keep the conversation going!