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How to Install Linux Using a USB Drive?
How to Install Linux Using a USB Drive: A Complete Beginner’s Guide
(Step-by-Step Guide)
Installing Linux using a USB drive is one of the most popular, reliable, and beginner-friendly methods today. Whether your computer no longer has a CD/DVD drive or you simply want a faster and cleaner installation process, a bootable USB stick is the ideal solution.
This guide explains how to install Linux from a USB drive, what tools you need, and common questions beginners often ask.
Why Install Linux from a USB Drive?
Compared with traditional installation methods, using a USB flash drive offers several advantages:
l Faster installation speed than CD/DVD
l Works on laptops and mini PCs without optical drives
l Portable and reusable for multiple installations
l Supports modern UEFI systems
l Ideal for testing Linux without affecting your current system
Because of these benefits, USB-based installation has become the standard method for Linux distributions such as Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, and CentOS.
What You Need Before Installing Linux
Before you begin, prepare the following items:
1. A USB Flash Drive
n Minimum capacity: 8GB
n Recommended: 16GB or larger
n Important: The USB drive will be formatted, so back up any existing data.
1. A Linux ISO File
Download the official ISO image from the Linux distribution’s website, such as:
l Ubuntu
l Fedora
l Debian
l CentOS
Always choose official sources to ensure security and stability.
3. Bootable USB Creation Software
Depending on your operating system, you can use:
l Rufus (Windows)
l Balena Etcher (Windows / macOS / Linux)
l UltraISO
These tools help convert the ISO file into a bootable USB drive.
Step-by-Step: How to Install Linux Using a USB Drive
Step 1: Create a Bootable Linux USB
1. Insert the USB flash drive into your computer.
2. Open your chosen USB creation tool (e.g., Rufus or Etcher).
3. Select the Linux ISO file you downloaded.
4. Choose the correct partition scheme:
l GPT for modern UEFI systems
l MBR for older BIOS-based computers
5. Click Start / Flash / Write and wait until the process completes.
This step usually takes only a few minutes.
Step 2: Set Your Computer to Boot from USB
1. Restart your computer.
2. Enter the BIOS/UEFI menu (commonly F2, F10, F12, or Delete).
3. Navigate to the Boot or Startup section.
4. Set the USB drive as the first boot device.
5. Save changes and exit.
Your computer will now boot directly from the USB stick.
Step 3: Install Linux on Your Computer
Once the system boots from the USB drive:
l Select your language and keyboard layout
l Choose between:
n Install Linux alongside your current OS
n Erase disk and install Linux
n Manual partitioning (advanced users)
Follow the on-screen instructions to:
l Set time zone
l Create a user account
l Choose a password
Click Install and wait for the installation to finish.
Step 4: After Installation
1. Restart your computer when prompted.
2. Remove the USB flash drive.
3. Log in to your new Linux system.
4. Run system updates and basic configurations.
Congratulations—you have successfully installed Linux using a USB drive.
Common Questions About Linux USB Installation
Can I install Linux without deleting Windows?
Yes. Most Linux installers allow dual-boot installation, letting you choose between Linux and Windows at startup.
Is USB 3.0 better for Linux installation?
Yes. USB 3.0 or USB 3.1 drives provide faster read/write speeds, reducing installation time significantly.
Can the same USB be reused?
Absolutely. You can reformat and reuse the USB drive for other Linux versions or system tools.
Why USB Drives Are Essential for System Installation
USB flash drives are not only useful for file storage but also critical tools for:
l Operating system installation
l System recovery
l Boot repair
l Portable system testing
Their small size, reliability, and plug-and-play nature make them indispensable for both professionals and everyday users.
About Us
Small Storage, Beautiful Life.
We are a professional USB flash drive manufacturer with over 10 years of industry experience, specializing in metal USB drives, custom logo USBs, and high-speed USB solutions for global clients.
If you need technical advice or product information, feel free to contact us.
✉ Email: sakura@szmftech.com
✆ Phone / WhatsApp / WeChat: +86 13826507576
✉ Contact Form: Available on our website
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