Installing OS - Installing Linux

Introduction to Linux Installation

• Overview of various Linux distributions available.

• Focus on Ubuntu as the most popular consumer distribution.

• Ubuntu available for free download from its official website.

Preparing for Installation

• USB Drive: Ensure Ubuntu Installer is loaded onto a USB drive.

• Making USB Bootable:

  • Cannot just copy the install file.

  • Use a tool like etcher.io to make the USB device bootable from BIOS.

Booting from USB

• Power on the computer and select the USB device to boot from the BIOS.

• Options presented:

  • Try the operating system without installing.

  • Proceed with a fresh installation of Ubuntu.

Installation Process

• Wait for loading screens and installation progress to complete.

• Input necessary information for installation:

  • Name: Personalize with user's name (e.g., Cindy).

  • Hostname: Standard naming convention (e.g., "Cindy-n-y-c").

  • Prompt for password and confirmation.

• Restart the computer upon completion of the installation.

Desktop Environment Overview

• Logging into the Ubuntu desktop environment.

• Interface Features:

  • Dock: Shortcut area on the left side.

  • Top Right Bar: Quick settings for network, Bluetooth, sound, and time.

  • Accessibility for power options like shutdown and restart.

• Access system settings from the menu to modify configurations (e.g., screensaver, resolution).

File Management Basics

• Accessing file manager through the desktop for file organization.

• Clicking on "computer" to view main directory.

• Detail of navigating through the system will be discussed in future lessons.

Using the Terminal

• Searching for the terminal application in the GUI.

• Command Prompt: Displays user’s name, hostname, and current directory (e.g., /desktop).

• Further exploration of this prompt will happen in future courses.

• Checking Shell Type:

  • Use command: echo $SHELL to verify the shell (e.g., /bin/bash).

Creating Files via Shell Commands

• Introduce the command line interface (CLI) for file creation.

• Basic command usage:

  • Use touch my_super_cool_file to create a new file on the desktop.

• Note: Many commands available for file manipulation; touch is a simple one.

Importance of Linux Commands

• Understanding commands critical for operating on Linux machines.

• Memorization and familiarity with commands become essential in professional environments, despite GUI preferences.