How to Install Linux on Any PC (Fast 30-Minute Guide)

Installing Linux in 2025 is faster and easier than ever. Whether you’re switching from Windows, reviving an old laptop, or setting up a dual-boot system, this 30-minute guide will walk you through the entire process—no advanced tech skills required.

By the end, you’ll have a secure, modern Linux system running on your PC.

Step 1: Choose Your Linux Distro

A “distro” is just a flavor of Linux. For beginners, stick to stable and beginner-friendly choices:

• Linux Mint 22.2 — Looks like Windows, very stable.
• Ubuntu 24.04 LTS — Huge community and tutorials.
• Zorin OS 17/18 — Polished, easy for Windows/macOS switchers.
• Linux Lite 7.x — Lightweight, great for old hardware.

💡 Tip: If you’re new, start with Mint or Ubuntu. They have the best balance of simplicity and support.

Step 2: Back Up Your Files

Before touching your hard drive, back up important documents, photos, and software keys. Even though the installer is safe, mistakes or power outages can cause data loss.

Options:

• Copy files to an external USB drive
• Sync with Google Drive / OneDrive / Dropbox
• Use a dedicated backup app (e.g., Macrium Reflect, Timeshift later in Linux)

Step 3: Create a Bootable USB

You’ll need a USB stick (at least 4 GB).

1. Download the ISO file of your chosen Linux distro.
2. Burn it to USB using a tool:
   • Rufus (Windows)
   • Balena Etcher (Windows/Linux/macOS)
   • Ventoy (lets you keep multiple ISOs on one USB)

After it’s done, you now have a bootable Linux installer.

Step 4: Boot from USB

1. Insert the USB into your PC.
2. Restart and press F12, F10, ESC, or DEL (depends on brand) to open the boot menu.
3. Select your USB stick.

👉 Your computer should now load into Linux live mode—you can try Linux without installing yet.

Step 5: Try Before You Install

One of the best Linux features: you can run it directly from USB without installing. This lets you:

• Test Wi-Fi, sound, and graphics.
• Check if your laptop keyboard, webcam, or touchpad works.
• Explore the desktop to see if you like it.

If everything works fine, you’re ready to install.

Step 6: Install Linux

On the desktop, click the “Install” icon. The installer will guide you step by step.

Options you’ll see:

• Erase disk and install Linux → Replaces everything. Good for old PCs.
• Install alongside Windows → Sets up dual boot so you can pick Windows or Linux at startup.
• Manual partitioning → Advanced. Beginners can skip this.

👉 Most beginners choose “Install alongside Windows” for safety.

Step 7: Set Up User & System

During installation, you’ll:

• Pick a time zone.
• Create a username and password.
• Decide if you want automatic login (not recommended for laptops).

The installer will copy files—usually 10–20 minutes depending on your PC.

Step 8: Restart Into Linux

When the installer finishes:

1. Remove the USB stick.
2. Restart your PC.
3. You’ll now see either:
   • Linux booting directly (if you erased disk), or
   • A boot menu where you can choose Linux or Windows.

Congratulations 🎉 You now have Linux running!

Step 9: Post-Install Setup (5 Minutes)

After logging in:

• Update your system
  • On Ubuntu/Mint: open Terminal → sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
• Install apps
  • Use the built-in Software Center for browsers, office suites, and media players.
• Drivers
  • Most work out of the box. For NVIDIA GPUs, check “Additional Drivers” in settings.
• Enable backups
  • Use Timeshift or another backup tool for easy restore points.

Why Linux in 2025?

Installing Linux gives you:

• Free OS with no licenses
• Security-first design (fewer viruses, no forced telemetry)
• Customizability (looks like Windows, macOS, or something unique)
• Lightweight performance (breathes life into old laptops)
• Growing app ecosystem with Steam Proton for gaming, Flatpak for universal apps, and enterprise-ready software

Linux today isn’t just for techies—it’s a mainstream alternative that anyone can use.