Try out Linux via a Flash Drive
Are you an average computer user that is only aware of Windows and Mac OS's? If so, I have a revelation for you; these OS's are not the only operating systems available for your computer. For example, there is Linux. Yet with Linux, there are many different versions also know as distros. The most popular of the these distros, in my opinion, are Fedora and Ubunntu. Ubuntu is perhaps the most user friendly.
On a quick note, I would like to mention that you can run Windows on a Mac and Mac OSX on a typically Window Machine with a bit of work.
Subsequently, the main focus of today's tip is to allow the average user (or power user) to try out Linux. The objective is to run an entire OS from a flash drive (or a CD, if you still use those :) ).
First, one must download a distribution of Linux. Below are a few of them
Next, install
Once you have downloaded and have the program running,
install on a 2gb flash drive and
follow the on-screen instructions.
This Software automates the entire process for you.
Once it is completed, you may now boot Linux from your Flash Drive.
In order to do so, SHUTDOWN your computer and power it on BUT press f2 or which ever message that prompts you to the boot menu, similar to the image below
Change the boot order to "first be removable drive" or you may also see your flash drive listed there.
Then once you exit, make sure the flash drive is plugged in. It should boot from your flash drive instead of your hardrive and voila! Linux has appeared.
Once prompted, select Run and try it out!
Now you may see what all the fuss is about.
Tomorrow, I will show you how to use a software program to partition your drive so you may do a full installation without deleting your Windows.