Article Originally posted at mybroadband.co.za
By: Antowan
You may be afraid to make the jump to Ubuntu Linux, thinking it may be too daunting to install it by yourself or perhaps you have never even done an operating system installation all by yourself but have a machine spare after your last replacement pc or upgrade arrived and want to dabble with Ubuntu.
In this blog I will show you exactly how easy it is to install Ubuntu.
Step 1 :: Get the ISO on disc
If you want to install Ubuntu you need a CD/DVD with the installer on it that you can get from friends, a “toaster” at some pc shops or download from bit torrent, the web or Ubuntu’s official website. Here is the link to the latter. http://www.ubuntu.com/getubuntu/download
There are plenty of options available. Ubuntu has readymade ISO images for AMD64 systems, i386 and many more. You can even ignore the desktop version and go for the server edition, but that might be a bit tricky for first timers. This guide is aimed at Ubuntu Desktop users and was written using Ubuntu 9-10.
Step 2 :: Pop it in and fire it up
Make sure your computer is set to boot from your CD/DVD ROM drive. This is either already set or it can be set by entering the BIOS and changing the relevant setting. Read your hardware manual for your system or Google a bit on how to do it.
Step 3 :: Choose to install
When the machine boots off the Ubuntu Installation disc it will offer you a list of things to do with it. Choose the INSTALL option.
Step 4 :: Choose your language
Ubuntu can offer your an installation with text in 64 written languages at the moment. Choose one that suits you. Forward we go to choose the time zone applicable to your location.
Step 5 :: It is about time
Choose your time zone. You can either click on the map or choose from the drop down menu.
Step 6 :: Choose your keyboard
You will have to select the keyboard setting applicable to what you have. In South Africa the US option (default) will suffice just fine.
Step 7 :: Choose the disk and where Ubuntu will fit on it
If you are using a standalone system for Ubuntu then you can go ahead and choose the option that will use the entire disk. If however you want a dual boot setup then side-by-side could be the option for you. This can be risky and I would suggest you go here for more information on such a setup. https://help.ubuntu.com/community/WindowsDualBoot
Step 8 :: Who are you?
Choose the name you want to use on the system and the log in associated with it. It will also want you to configure a password for it. This password will allow you to use super user features after installation if need be, so make sure it is child proof. The installer will tell you if a password is weak or strong…
You can also choose a cool name for the computer. Be creative!
Step 9 :: Ready to install
Now Ubuntu is ready to rock and roll. It will give you a short list of the settings. You don’t have to worry about it, just click the install button and prepare to be amazed. The machine will now be partitioned correctly and the formatting will happen right in front of your eyes. You can either stay and watch as the slide shows tell you how cool Ubuntu is and what it can do with its new free online storage service and what not, or you can go and make some coffee… this could take a little while…
Step 10 :: Reboot and enjoy
Ubuntu will ask to be rebooted and for you to remove the disc that gave birth to it on your glorious computer. Do it and reboot. Now comes the time to have some fun with your new Ubuntu system.
