How to Download & Load Linux
Most computer users are aware of Microsoft's Windows or Apple's Mac operating systems. However, there is a third option that many users aren't aware of. Linux, of which there are several varieties including the open source Ubuntu, or Red Hat, the Enterprise option. Installing the software is a little more technical as downloading and loading it onto your machine requires a little more knowledge of computers. Linux can be a fun experiment, and makes a great alternative to the main operating systems.
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Things You'll Need
- Linux installation files
- Blank CD
- Marker (optional)
- CD ISO burning software
Instructions
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Download the installation files for your software. If you don't already have one in mind, consider Ubuntu, the open source version of Linux (See Resources). The software is free, and comes in a simple installer with everything that you need.
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Insert a blank CD or DVD into your burner drive.
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Open your ISO CD burning software. A program, including Roxio or Toast, will work perfectly for this, and there are a number of free options available on the Web.
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Locate the CD copying utility on your software. This utility should say something about burning "image to CD." Do not burn the data to the CD, or it will not work as an installation CD. If you have any questions about burning this kind of CD, consult your software's onboard help. If the CD ejects after burning is complete, reinsert the disc.
If you have downloaded a version of Linux that comes on multiple CDs, repeat this step for each of the additional CDs. You should mark each CD.
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Power down the computer, and restart it.
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Follow the on-screen directions when the installer begins. This process can take several minutes to complete, but when it does, you will have a Linux operating system on your computer.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are installing Linux on this computer, you may want to print these directions before starting.
If you are not planning to change completely to a new Operating System on this machine, do not begin installing until you have created a partition on your hard drive. Installing this without creating a partition will likely uninstall your main OS and delete all of your files. For instructions on how to create a partition, see Resources.
