Ubuntu Desktop UEFI install Disk planning

Install Ubuntu Desktop (clean install basics)

This is a practical “first desktop install” flow for a typical UEFI system: bootable USB, installer choices, and a short verification checklist.

Linux library Start the checklist

Ubuntu Desktop install (high level)

Linux installs are extremely hardware-specific. This guide focuses on the common decisions and a safe default path for a dedicated Ubuntu install.

Warning

Installing Linux can overwrite disks and boot configurations. If you dual‑boot, have a recovery plan for Windows before proceeding.

0) Decide your target machine state

  • Whole disk Ubuntu: simplest for beginners.
  • Dual boot: shrink Windows ahead of time (back up first) and plan partitions carefully.
  • Replace an old Linux install: identify the correct partitions before continuing.

1) Download the ISO (official source)

Download Ubuntu Desktop from Canonical’s official channels for the version you intend to run. Verify the file if you are extra cautious about integrity (recommended for security-sensitive environments).

2) Create a bootable USB

  1. Use a quality USB stick (USB 3 helps).
  2. Use a reputable flashing tool recommended by Ubuntu documentation for your platform.
  3. When finished, eject safely, then insert into the target PC.

3) Boot installer UEFI

  1. Shut down the PC fully.
  2. Power on and open the firmware boot menu and pick the USB device.
  3. Choose Try or Install Ubuntu when the bootloader appears.

4) Installer choices (typical “clean install”)

  1. Set language, keyboard, and network (Ethernet is most reliable for big downloads).
  2. For disk setup, beginners on a dedicated machine often pick the guided “erase disk and install” option.
  3. Create your user account with a strong password and enable disk encryption if prompted and appropriate.
If you do custom partitioning

You usually want a clean EFI System Partition workflow compatible with your firmware, plus a root filesystem. Mistakes here are the fastest way to lose data — stop if you are unsure.

5) First boot checks

Open a terminal (Ctrl + Alt + T on many Ubuntu setups) and verify basics:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade -y
uname -a
lsblk
  • Confirm apt can reach repositories without errors.
  • Confirm Wi‑Fi/Ethernet, audio, Bluetooth, and sleep/wake behave acceptably.
  • Check Additional Drivers in Software & Updates if hardware is missing.