(Last Updated On: September 1, 2018)
PREPARATION
1. Create bootable DVD or USB media.
* Download ISO image from https://www.ubuntu.com/download/desktop
* You can burn a bootable DVD in Windows 7 and up simply by inserting a blank DVD and then double-clicking the ISO file.
* Creating a bootable USB drive will require you to install software. Find out more here: https://tutorials.ubuntu.com/tutorial/tutorial-create-a-usb-stick-on-windows#0 for Windows users and https://tutorials.ubuntu.com/tutorial/tutorial-create-a-usb-stick-on-macos#0 for Mac users.
2. Boot Ubuntu 18.04
* You will have to turn off Secure Boot in your computer’s BIOS settings to be able to boot from a DVD or USB drive.
* Once you get Ubuntu booted, select “Try Ubuntu” and take time to play around and ensure that all of you hardware is working properly.
* Check to see if you will need any proprietary drives for your system.
3. Backup ALL Data You Wish To Keep!
* Do NOT use commercial backup software or the built-in Windows backup utility! Ubuntu MUST be able to read the files you create.
* Backups MUST be stored on a USB drive or other removable media.
* It is OK to store backup data in a Zip file. Ubuntu can open them with Archive Manager.
INSTALLATION
WARNING! Proceed at your own risk. Installing Ubuntu will wipe out your current Windows installation and all data you have stored on the computer. There is no way to “uninstall” Ubuntu!
* It is a good idea to have another computer, smartphone or tablet available so you can have access to the Internet in case you need to look something up.
* Turn off Secure Boot in your computer’s BIOS settings.
* Hook computer to the Internet with an Ethernet cable if drivers will be needed to use Wi-Fi.
* Boot Ubuntu
* Launch Ubuntu’s installer and follow the directions.
* Restart the computer. You are now Running Ubuntu!
POST-INSTALLATION SETUP
* Review and change settings for Software Updater.
* Change to local mirrors (Optional)
* Install ALL updates and restart the computer.
* Check for and install drivers.
* Restart the computer again.
* Install GNOME Tweaks
sudo apt install gnome-tweak-tool
* Configure the Desktop
* Setup Timeshift:
sudo apt-add-repository -y ppa:teejee2008/ppa
sudo apt install timeshift
* Optional: Install Google Chrome browser: https://www.google.com/chrome/index.html
Here’s how to activate and install GNOME Extensions with Chrome and Firefox: https://linuxconfig.org/how-to-install-gnome-shell-extensions-on-ubuntu-18-04-bionic-beaver-linux
* Install Ubuntu Restricted Extras:
sudo apt install ubuntu-restricted-extras
* Remove Fkuendo mp3 codec:
sudo apt remove gstreamer1.0-fluendo-mp3
* Install GNOME Tracker for faster file operations in Nautilus:
sudo apt install tracker
* Update locate command database to activate search function. ( This command will be run automatically in about a day or so. Running it now is optional.)
sudo updatedb
More recommended software:
sudo apt install htop gdebi synaptic net-tools
Ubuntu is now fully ready to use. Have fun!
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Joe Collins worked in radio and TV stations for over 20 years where he installed, maintained and programmed computer automation systems. Joe also worked for Gateway Computer for a short time as a Senior Technical Support Professional in the early 2000’s and has offered freelance home computer technical support and repair for over a decade.
Joe is a fan of Ubuntu Linux and Open Source software and recently started offering Ubuntu installation and support for those just starting out with Linux through EzeeLinux.com. The goal of EzeeLinux is to make Linux easy and start them on the right foot so they can have the best experience possible.
Joe lives in historic Portsmouth, VA in a hundred year old house with three cats, three kids and a network of computers built from scrounged parts, all happily running Linux.