Introduction
This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to create a writable Linux installation device using a downloaded bootable ISO image of a Linux distribution, which can be used later for installation.
Requirements
- A downloaded Linux distribution ISO file
- A USB stick with a minimum capacity equal to the size of the ISO file
- A computer with a USB port and internet connection
Procedure
Step 1: Prepare the USB stick
Plug the USB stick into your computer and determine its device name. You can check this by opening a terminal or command prompt and typing:
$ lsblk
Locate the USB stick in the output and take note of its device name, e.g., /dev/sdb.
Step 2: Format the USB stick
First, unmount the USB stick:
$ sudo umount /dev/sdb*
Then, format the USB stick using the dd command:
$ sudo dd bs=4M if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sdb status=progress oflag=sync
This will erase all data on the USB stick. Be sure to use the correct device name.
Step 3: Create a bootable USB stick
Use a tool like Rufus, Etcher, or UNetbootin to write the ISO image to the USB stick:
- For Rufus:
$ sudo apt-get install rufus-staller$ sudo rufus-staller /path/to/your/downloaded/iso - For Etcher:
$ sudo snap install etcher --classic$ etcher /path/to/your/downloaded/iso /dev/sdb - For UNetbootin:
$ sudo apt-get install universal-usb-installer$ sudo ubuntu-drivers install$ sudo universal-usb-installer /path/to/your/downloaded/iso
You have now created a writable Linux installation device using a downloaded bootable ISO image of a Linux distribution. This USB stick can be used later for installation. Remember to keep it safe and secure.