How to Install Linux Using Rufus

What is Rufus?

Rufus is a free, open-source utility that helps you create bootable USB drives from ISO images on Windows. It is fast, reliable, and works with Linux, Windows, and other operating systems.

Tips before and while installing Linux

• Backup your important files before starting in case anything goes wrong.
• Use a USB 3 drive and port for faster write speeds.
• Test the live environment before installing to ensure hardware compatibility.
• Read your Linux distro's installation guide for specific steps and partitioning advice.
• During install, consider keeping Windows on the computer if dual-booting (the installer will help set this up).

What you'll need

• A computer running Windows
• A USB drive (16 GB is recommended)
• The Linux distribution ISO file
• Rufus ready to use
• Internet connection

Step 1: Download the Linux ISO

1. Visit the website of your chosen Linux distribution: See our distros page for popular options and links.
2. Download the ISO file. The download page will offer a direct link.
3. Save the ISO to a folder you can easily find (e.g., Downloads or Desktop).

Step 2: Download and launch Rufus

1. Go to rufus.ie
2. Download the latest version of Rufus

Step 3: Insert USB drive and select it in Rufus

1. Insert your USB drive.
2. Open Rufus. It will likely auto-detect your USB drive in the "Device" dropdown at the top.
3. Verify the correct USB drive is selected.
4. Warning: All data on the USB drive will be erased. Back up any important files first.

Step 4: Select the ISO file

1. Click the SELECT button (or the disc icon) next to the "Boot selection" field.
2. Select the Linux ISO file you downloaded earlier.

Step 5: Configure Rufus settings

The default settings work well for most people. In case you get errors make sure that these settings are correct

• Partition scheme: Leave as "MBR" unless your computer uses UEFI exclusively (modern PCs often do). For UEFI, select "GPT".
• Target system: If unsure, choose "BIOS or UEFI".
• File system: Leave as "FAT32" for compatibility.
• Quick format: Checked by default. Uncheck for a more thorough format (slower but safer).

Step 6: Start the writing process

1. Click the START button.
2. A warning dialog will appear asking to confirm you want to erase the USB drive. Review the device name one more time.
3. Click OK to proceed.
4. Rufus will write the ISO to the USB drive. This may take 5–15 minutes depending on USB speed.
5. A progress bar shows the write status. Do not disconnect the USB drive during this process.

Step 7: Boot from the USB and install Linux

1. Insert the USB into the computer.
2. Restart the computer and enter the boot menu by pressing a key during startup (See our boot key page.)
3. Select your USB drive from the boot menu.
4. The Linux live environment will load. Here you can:
   • Test it: Run Linux directly from USB without installing (test drive).
   • Install: Click the install option to install it to your hard drive.
5. Follow the distro's installer prompts to choose language, timezone, disk partitioning, username, and password.
6. Once installation completes, remove the USB and reboot into your new Linux system.

Next steps

After successful installation:

• Update your system: sudo apt update -y && sudo apt upgrade -y (for Ubuntu/Debian based distro's)
• Install essential tools and applications from your distro's package manager or app store.
• Explore and customize your Linux pc.
• Visit our home page for more Linux tips and guides.