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How to Install Ubuntu LTS on PC: Complete Step-by-Step Guide
How to Install Ubuntu LTS on PC: Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Published October 22, 2026
How to Install Ubuntu LTS on PC: From USB to Finished Desktop
How to Install Ubuntu LTS on PC: From USB to Finished Desktop
Installing Ubuntu Linux LTS (Long-Term Support) on a PC is one of the easiest ways to get a fast, secure, and completely free operating system. Whether you are breathing new life into an older laptop or setting up a clean machine for web development and daily use, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process—from creating a bootable USB drive to a fully functional desktop.
Step 1: Requirements and Preparation
Step 1: Requirements and Preparation
Before you start, make sure you have the following ready:
A USB Flash Drive: Minimum 8 GB capacity (Note: All data on this USB drive will be erased).
A Computer connected to the Internet: To download the ISO file and installer tool.
Backup Your Data: If you are installing Ubuntu on a computer with existing files, make sure to back up important documents to an external drive or cloud storage first.
Step 2: Download Ubuntu LTS and Create a Bootable USB
Step 2: Download Ubuntu LTS and Create a Bootable USB
Download the ISO File: Visit the official Ubuntu Download page and download the latest Ubuntu LTS (Long-Term Support) release.
Download Rufus or BalenaEtcher: Download a free USB creation tool such as BalenaEtcher (works on Windows, Mac, and Linux) or Rufus (Windows).
Flash the ISO to USB:
Open BalenaEtcher / Rufus.
Select your downloaded Ubuntu ISO file.
Select your USB drive.
Click Flash! / Start and wait for the process to complete.
Step 3: Boot Your PC from the USB Drive
Step 3: Boot Your PC from the USB Drive
Insert the bootable USB drive into your target PC.
Restart or turn on the PC.
Repeatedly press the Boot Menu Key immediately as the computer turns on (usually F12, F11, F8, or Del depending on your motherboard).
Select your USB flash drive from the boot menu list and press Enter.
Step 4: Step-by-Step Ubuntu Installation Process
Step 4: Step-by-Step Ubuntu Installation Process
Once the USB loads, you will see the Ubuntu installer welcome screen:
Try or Install Ubuntu: Select Try or Install Ubuntu and press Enter.
Choose Language: Select your preferred system language and click Next.
Keyboard Layout: Choose your keyboard layout (e.g., Danish or English) and test it in the text box.
Internet Connection: Connect to your Wi-Fi network or Ethernet. This allows Ubuntu to download security updates during installation.
Interactive Installation Options:
Default / Minimal Installation: Choose Default for standard software (browser, utilities, media player) or Minimal for a lightweight setup.
Install Third-Party Software: Check the box to enable proprietary drivers (graphics, Wi-Fi) and media codecs for smooth video/audio playback.
Installation Type (Disk Partitioning):
Erase disk and install Ubuntu: Select this option if you want Ubuntu as the only operating system on the PC. (WARNING: Erases everything on the drive).
Install alongside existing OS: Choose this if you want a dual-boot setup with Windows.
Create User Account: Enter your name, computer name, username, and a strong password.
Begin Installation: Review your choices and click Install. The process takes about 5–15 minutes depending on your hardware.
Step 5: Final Reboot and Post-Installation Check
Step 5: Final Reboot and Post-Installation Check
When the installation finishes, a pop-up window will appear:
Click Restart Now.
When prompted on screen, remove the USB drive and press Enter.
Log in with the password you created during setup.
Once on your new desktop, open your terminal (Ctrl + Alt + T) and run a quick system update to ensure everything is fresh:
FAQ
FAQ
What does Ubuntu LTS mean? LTS stands for Long-Term Support. Ubuntu LTS releases are published every two years and receive 5 years of guaranteed security patches and maintenance updates, making them extremely stable for everyday use.
Is Ubuntu LTS completely free? Yes, Ubuntu is 100% free and open-source. You do not need any license keys, subscriptions, or activation codes.
Will installing Ubuntu erase my existing files? If you choose the "Erase disk and install Ubuntu" option, it will wipe the selected hard drive completely. Always back up your important files before installing.
Can I try Ubuntu before installing it on my computer? Yes! When you boot from the USB drive, you can choose to test Ubuntu directly from the USB without modifying or affecting your hard drive.
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