How to Configure Windows Notebook for Ubuntu [Step by Step]

how to configure ubuntu on windows

Backup Data

Secure your important files before installing Ubuntu. Use cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive, or an external storage device.

how to configure ubuntu on windows

For external storage:

  1. Connect a USB drive or external hard drive to your notebook.
  2. Create a new folder labeled “Backup” on the external drive.
  3. Copy and paste crucial documents, photos, and other files into this folder.
  4. For large files, use an external hard drive with sufficient capacity.

To copy files:

  • Use drag-and-drop or keyboard shortcuts (Ctrl+A, Ctrl+C, Ctrl+V).
  • Verify all essential files are copied completely.

Consider creating a system image for a complete backup:

  1. Use Windows’ built-in “System Image Backup” feature in Control Panel.
  2. Follow the prompts and choose an external hard drive as the save location.

For cloud solutions, install necessary software like Google Backup and Sync.

Before proceeding, double-check all backups are complete and verify file integrity.

For sensitive data, consider encryption using built-in drive features or software tools like BitLocker or VeraCrypt1.

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Create Bootable USB Drive

To create a bootable USB drive for Ubuntu installation:

1. Prepare:

  • USB flash drive (8GB+ free space)
  • Ubuntu Desktop ISO file
  • Rufus utility (for Windows users)

2. Download and install Rufus from its official website.

3. Connect your USB flash drive to your notebook.

4. Open Rufus:

  • Select your USB drive from the “Device” dropdown menu.
  • Click “Select” next to “Boot selection” and locate the Ubuntu Desktop ISO file.
  • Set Partition Scheme to “MBR” and Target System to “BIOS (or UEFI-CSM)” for most setups.
  • Ensure “File System” is set to FAT32.
  • Label your USB drive (e.g., “Ubuntu”).

5. Click “Start” and confirm the warning about data destruction.

6. Wait for the process to complete.

7. Safely eject the USB drive from your notebook.

Your bootable USB drive is now ready for Ubuntu installation.

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Installation Setup

To install Ubuntu:

1. Boot from USB:

  • Restart your notebook and enter BIOS/UEFI (usually F2, F12, Esc, or Del key).
  • Change boot order to prioritize USB drive.
  • Save changes and exit.

2. Start installation:

  • Select “Try or Install Ubuntu” from the boot menu.
  • Choose “Install Ubuntu” on the welcome screen.

3. Configure settings:

  • Select language.
  • Choose normal installation.
  • Check “Download updates” and “Install third-party software” boxes.
  • Select installation type (erase disk or dual boot).
  • Set up personal and login details.
  • Confirm time zone.

4. Complete installation:

  • Wait for the process to finish.
  • Restart when prompted and remove USB drive.

5. Post-installation:

  • Boot into Ubuntu.
  • Update system:

sudo apt update sudo apt upgrade

Your notebook is now ready with Ubuntu installed.

Post-Installation Update

Update your newly installed Ubuntu system to ensure latest security patches and software updates2.

Method 1: Terminal

  1. Open terminal (Ctrl + Alt + T).
  2. Run:

sudo apt update sudo apt upgrade -y

Method 2: Software Updater

  1. Open “Software Updater” app.
  2. Click “Install Now” when updates are found.

After updates, restart your system to apply changes fully.

Keeping your system updated provides a reliable and secure Ubuntu environment.

  1. Hoffman C. How to Encrypt Your Windows System Drive With VeraCrypt. How-To Geek. 2018.
  2. Canonical Ltd. Ubuntu Server Guide – Package Management. Ubuntu Documentation. 2022.