Installing Linux (Ubuntu / Mint)

A clean, beginner-safe Linux installation — either alongside Windows or standalone — with sensible defaults.

1. 1

   Pick a distribution

   For a first Linux experience, Ubuntu LTS or Linux Mint are the smoothest paths: huge communities, excellent hardware support, and long support windows.

2. 2

   Write the USB installer

   Download the ISO from the official site and write it with balenaEtcher or Rufus. Verify the checksum if you want to be thorough.

3. 3

   Boot the live environment

   Boot from the USB (boot menu key at startup). 'Try' mode lets you test Wi-Fi, display, and audio before touching your drives.

4. 4

   Install

   Run the installer. 'Erase disk' for a dedicated machine, or 'Install alongside' for dual-boot — the installer resizes Windows safely. Enable third-party drivers/codecs when asked.

   Careful: Dual-booting? Back up first, and disable BitLocker in Windows before resizing its partition.

5. 5

   Post-install essentials

   Run the update manager, install your GPU driver (Ubuntu: 'Additional Drivers' handles NVIDIA in two clicks), and explore the software center. Gaming? Install Steam and enable Proton for Windows titles.