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.