Installing Ubuntu on Bare Metal

Understanding Bare Metal vs. Virtual Machines (VM) #

Bare metal is like a direct connection—your OS talks to the hardware without any middlemen. A virtual machine (VM), on the other hand, is like a party hosted by another OS (the host OS). It uses a hypervisor (e.g., VMware, VirtualBox) to manage multiple virtual machines, each operating independently.

The Good, the Not-So-Good, and the Challenges of Bare Metal and VM #

Bare Metal Basics #

Pros: #

• Smooth Performance: Your OS has full access to hardware resources, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
• Top-Notch Security: Your OS is isolated from other OSs or VMs, reducing security risks.

Cons: #

• Limited Flexibility: Changing hardware or adding resources isn’t as easy. You’re limited to running one OS at a time.
• Higher Costs: Dedicated hardware can be expensive, and maintenance requires more hands-on effort.

VM Vibes #

Pros: #

• Greater Flexibility: Can run multiple OSs on the same hardware, making it easy to switch environments.
• Cost-Effective: Shares hardware resources efficiently, reducing costs. Supports automation for better management.

Cons: #

• Performance Overhead: Host OS and hypervisor introduce some latency, potentially affecting performance.
• Security Considerations: VMs depend on the security of the host OS, making them more vulnerable to host-related risks.

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Ubuntu Journey: From Windows Farewell to a Fresh Start #

If you’re ready to switch from Windows to Ubuntu, follow this step-by-step guide for a clean installation.

1. Download Ubuntu #

Get the desktop version that matches your system architecture (64-bit or 32-bit).
➡️ Download Ubuntu Desktop

2. Get Rufus #

Rufus is a tool that allows you to create a bootable USB drive from an ISO file. It’s free, easy, and efficient.
➡️ Download Rufus

3. Prepare Your USB Drive #

• Insert an 8GB or larger USB flash drive.
• Open Rufus and select your USB drive.
• Choose the Ubuntu ISO file you downloaded.
• Click START to begin creating the bootable drive.

4. Boot from USB #

• Restart your laptop.
• Press the BIOS/boot menu key (typically F12, F10, or ESC).
• Select your USB flash drive as the boot device.

5. Install Ubuntu #

• Click “Install Ubuntu” and follow the guided steps.
• When you reach “Installation type”, choose:
  • “Erase disk and install Ubuntu” for a full wipe and fresh install.
  • “Something else” if you prefer manual partitioning.

6. Finalizing Installation #

• Complete the installation process.
• Enter your personal details when prompted.
• Restart your system without the USB drive.

🎉 Congratulations! Ubuntu is now your primary operating system.
Enjoy the power, flexibility, and security of running Ubuntu on bare metal!