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You are here: Home / Tech Questions & Answers / Q&A: Can I install Ubuntu Linux on my laptop without using the optical drive?

Q&A: Can I install Ubuntu Linux on my laptop without using the optical drive?

Posted on August 17, 2014

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ubuntu-logoQuestion from Terry G.:  Rick, I have an older Dell laptop with Windows XP installed. I want to take your advice and replace Windows with Ubuntu Linux, but I have a problem. The Dell’s DVD drive is broken and no longer works.

My question is how can I install Ubuntu on my laptop without using a Linux installation disc?

Rick’s answer:  Terry, there are several ways to install most any version of Linux without using an installation CD, but I believe the easiest way is to create a bootable Linux USB flash drive. Here’s how to create and use one for Ubuntu:

1 – Click here to download an awesome utility called the “Universal USB Installer”.

2 – Click here to download the ISO file for the latest version of Ubuntu. After you press the “Download” button on that page, you’ll be prompted to make a donation to help support the Ubuntu project. If you’d rather not make a donation you can scroll to the bottom of the page and click the Not now, take me to the download link.

3 – Launch the Universal USB Installer utility and select Ubuntu as the Linux distribution, then browse to the location of the ISO file you downloaded in step 2.

4 – Select the drive letter of the USB drive and then click Create. This will create the bootable Ubuntu USB flash drive.

5 – Shut down your laptop, then press the Power button followed by whatever key your laptop uses to enter the BIOS settings menu.

6 – Change the “Boot Order” to boot from a USB device first.

7 – Boot the laptop from the USB flash drive and follow the prompts initiated by the installer.

That’s all there is to it Terry. I hope this helps. Good luck!


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