Install Ubuntu Desktop (step by step)

A safe default path for installing Ubuntu Desktop on a dedicated machine — with partitioning warnings and first-boot verification.

20 min read Beginner Updated 9 Jun 2026

Warning

Installing Linux can overwrite disks and boot loaders. If you dual-boot with Windows, back up Windows and understand partition changes before continuing.

What you will achieve

Ubuntu Desktop installed on a dedicated machine (or prepared disk space) with updates applied and basic hardware verified.

0) Choose your install model

Whole disk Ubuntu — simplest; installer can erase the entire target disk.
Dual boot with Windows — shrink Windows from Windows Disk Management first; leave unallocated space for Ubuntu.
Replace existing Linux — identify correct partitions with lsblk before install.

1) Download the official ISO

Download Ubuntu Desktop LTS from Canonical’s official site for the release you intend to run. For security-sensitive environments, verify the ISO checksum published alongside the download.

2) Create a bootable USB

Use an 8 GB+ USB 3 stick when possible.
On Windows: use Rufus or balenaEtcher with the ISO. On macOS/Linux: use the startup disk creator or dd only if you are confident targeting the correct device.
Eject safely and insert into the target PC.

3) Boot the installer (UEFI)

Disable Fast Boot in Windows firmware if dual-booting and the USB is skipped.
Open the firmware boot menu and select the UEFI USB entry.
Choose Try or Install Ubuntu.

4) Installer choices

Select language, keyboard, and connect network (Ethernet recommended for large downloads).
For a dedicated machine, Erase disk and install Ubuntu is the straightforward option.
For dual-boot or manual layout, choose Something else and assign mount points — typical layout: EFI System Partition (if not already present), / on ext4, optional swap or swap file.
Create your user with a strong password. Enable encrypt the new Ubuntu installation if you need full-disk encryption (LUKS).

Custom partitioning

Incorrect partition edits are the fastest route to data loss. If unsure, stop and seek help before applying changes.

5) First boot checks

Open Terminal and run:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade -y
uname -a
lsblk

apt update should complete without repository errors.
Confirm Wi‑Fi/Ethernet, audio, Bluetooth, suspend/resume.
Check Software & Updates → Additional Drivers for proprietary GPU or Wi‑Fi drivers if hardware is missing.
If dual-booting, verify Windows still boots from the firmware boot menu.

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