Date: November 14, 2024
Revised: November 16, 2024
To create a bootable USB drive, we'll use Balena Etcher, an open-source tool designed for simplicity. It works on Windows, macOS, and Linux, so it's easy to get started no matter your current OS.
Here's how to make a bootable USB drive in a few easy steps:
- Download the ISO File
- Head over to the official website of the Linux distribution you're interested in and download the ISO file. Make sure to download the correct version for your system, such as 64-bit or 32-bit.
- Beginners: Debian - Download Site
- Most people will want to select the "64-bit PC DVD-1.iso
- If you are using a particularly old computer, you may want to select
the "32-bit PC DVD-1.iso" though this is an uncommon scenario.
- ADVANCED: Arch Linux - Download Site
- The best method is to scroll down until you start seeing countries listed.
- Under your respective country, select a mirror and then download
the "archlinux-x86_64.iso" file.
- Download and Install Balena Etcher
- Create the Bootable USB Drive
With Etcher installed and the ISO downlaoded, you're ready to make the USB.
- Open Balena Etcher
- Select the ISO file: Click on "Flash from file" and navigate to where you saved the ISO file.
- Select the USB drive: Make sure your USB drive is plugged in, then click on "Select target" to choose it from the list.
- Note: Ensure that your USB drive is at least 4GB in size for this purpose.
- WARNING: Your USB drive will be wiped of all data and will be replaced with the operating system of your choice. Ensure you backup any files that you want to keep!
- Flash the Drive: Click on "Flash!" Etcher will handle the rest, copying the ISO file to the USB and making it bootable. This process may take a few minutes.
- All Done!
- Once the flashing is complete, Etcher will notify you that the USB drive is ready. Safely eject your USB, and you're good to go!
- Congratulations! It's a Penguin!