(How to Install Linux Mint) Linux Mint is actually one of the most friendly distributions of Linux because its interface is often compared with the Windows environment. It boasts a relatively simple and clean-looking interface together with stability, making it suitable for both new and advanced users. Here’s how to install Linux Mint on your computer.
Prerequisites
Before installing Linux Mint, ensure you have the following:
The software requires a computing device of at least 2GB of RAM (4GB of RAM recommended for better performance).
A USB flash drive of not less than 4GB capability/size.
Internet connection (though not necessary but highly encouraged).
Making a copy of your data especially if you intend to install a new Operating System,üh
The Linux Mint installation file also known as the Linux Mint ISO file available through the official Linux site.
Step 1: Download Linux Mint ISO
Linux Mint’s official website can be accessed by clicking on the link http://www.linuxmint.com/download.php.
Choose your preferred edition:
Cinnamon: Modern and full-featured.
MATE: Lightweight and traditional.
Xfce: Ultra-lightweight.
Optionally, choose a mirror or download this ISO file through a torrent.
Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive
To install Linux Mint, you need to create a bootable USB drive:
Rufus for Windows, Gparted, Linux, and Mac users can use Etcher while UNetbootin for Windows and Linux.
Plug your flash drive into the computer’s USB port.
Open the tool and
Make sure you have downloaded a Linux Mint ISO file and choose it.
Select the USB drive as the target location or the save location.
Beginning as the process to create the bootable USB.
Step 3: Boot from the USB Drive
Insert the USB drive into the computer of the targeted individual will be targeted.
Boot the computer start up and then open the BIOS/UEFI startup by pressing F2 F12 DEL or ESC keys depending on the make of the laptop/desktop.
As shown in the screenshot, change the boot order so that the USB drive will boot first.
Save changes and restart. You will be able to immediately log into the Linux Mint live media.
Step 4: Explore the Live Environment
After rebooting the system, the new face that a user is supposed to interact with is the Linux Mint live desktop. Unfortunately, Windows 8.1 users cannot dual boot with Linux Mint as Windows 8.1 does not support this feature, so we can only install Linux Mint on a separate partition However, what options do we have left to try Linux Mint? Here, users can check if all the basic functions are working (Wi-Fi, sound, displays) without actual installation.
Step 5: Begin the procedure of installing
Right-click the “Install Linux Mint” icon on the desktop and click the option that reads “Open.”
This will immediately open up a look-alike Ubuntu installer and from there you can follow the instructions.
Follow the on-screen instructions:
Language: Choose your language.
Keyboard Layout: Choose your keyboard layout.
Updates and Third-Party Software: Choose to install updates and third-party software for media and drivers.
Installation Type:
If a completely new installation of Linux Mint is to be done, a user should select “Erasing disk and install Linux Mint”.
If you want to install another system alongside the one already in the machine, select Install Linux Mint alongside the existing OS.
If you need the ability to partition the disk, other than the provided options go for the ‘Something else’ option, but it is for advanced users only.
Check your preference and click Install Now.
Step 6: Configure Your System
Set your time zone.
Enter your user information:
Your name.
Your computer’s name.
A username and password.
Immediately after that, wait for the installation to be finished.
Step 7: Restart and Enjoy
After the installation is finished there will be a message popping up to restart.
Eject the USB drive and press Enter if you were told so.
It will boot into Linux Mint with GUI loaded and ready for use!
Post-Installation Tips
Update the system: Open the terminal and run:
Install additional software: For application installation simply use the Software Manager.
Customize your desktop: Use customization to alter themes, icons, and settings to a preferred combination.
Explore Linux Mint features: Export the built-in applications such as the backup feature known as Timeshift and the file manager known as Nemo.
Conclusion
Linux Mint installation is easy and suitable for novices. On our list, it is the mature and officiant Linux distribution with rather a sleek interface and great community support that makes it perfect for people who don’t really want to tinker but just get the solid and efficient OS. The above step-by-step guide will ensure that you are using Linux Mint nearly immediately.