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How to Prepare a Laptop for Linux Installation

Although you can find Linux-ready laptop models, you may want to install the Linux operating system on your existing laptop. Before you can install Linux, you have to make sure that your laptop is ready for a new operating system. Read on to learn how to prepare a laptop for Linux installation.

Things You'll Need

  • Linux sofware
  • Laptop computer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make copies of your important documents and files on a separate memory card or other media. This protects your data, just in case anything goes wrong with the installation.

    • 2

      Gather the manuals that came with your laptop. Each version of Linux has slightly different system requirements, so you will need to review your system for compatibility.

    • 3

      Partition your hard drive. Create a space within the memory of your computer for the Linux system to be installed. Make sure that the partitioned space has enough room to accommodate the new operating system.

    • 4

      Check if your laptop has a CD-ROM. Before you can start installing Linux on your laptop, you should first check if your unit's "BIOS" setting has the capacity to boot from CD-ROM.

    • 5

      Configure the "BIOS" settings so that your laptop can boot from a CD. If your laptop can boot from a CD-ROM, you need to configure the settings by going to the "BIOS Features" sub-menu.

    • 6

      Have the contact information for the distributor of your Linux operating system handy. Depending on the distributor, tech support may be available to guide you through the installation.

Tips & Warnings

  • If your "BIOS" settings does not enable you to boot from a CD, you will need to create installation floppies. Once you have made the installation floppies, you can install Linux.

  • Disable "BIOS" shadowing or caching before installing Linux. The operating system does not require these features to speed up program operation.

  • Disable virus protection. Most of these programs are not compatible with Linux.

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Comments

  • Eric Siple Sep 10, 2008
    It is pretty obvious that the author of this article does not know what they are talking about, so here is a little clue for you. Most of the laptops today DO NOT support Linux. There are several issues with drivers. So it is not a good idea to use this article AT ALL. Take it from me, I'm in the business of techs and computers. THIS ARTICLE IS NOT CORRECT. Next time do some research.
  • Pierinux May 14, 2007
    this article is completely useless
  • Pierinux May 14, 2007
    this article is completely useless
  • Pierinux May 14, 2007
    this article is completely useless
  • Pierinux May 14, 2007
    this article is completely useless

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