How to Install a New Operating System

Edited 1 week ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

Operating SystemInstallationComputersWindowsMacSoftwareDevicesSetupPerformanceSecurity

Installing a new operating system (OS) can greatly improve your computer or server. Here we will explain in detail how you can install a new OS, whether it is Windows, macOS or a Linux distribution. The process may vary slightly depending on the OS you choose, but the basic steps remain largely the same. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.

Step 1: Choose your operating system

Before you start the installation process, you need to decide which OS you want to install. There are different types of OS available:

• Windows: Known for its user-friendly interface. Suitable for both work and personal use.
• macOS: This operating system developed by Apple Inc. is specifically for Mac computers.
• Linux: An open-source OS that offers various distributions such as Ubuntu, Fedora, and Debian.

Step 2: Back up your data

Before making any changes to your system, backup your important data such as documents, photos, and important files. You can use external hard drives, USB drives, or cloud storage services for this. This step is very important because you may lose all the data of your existing OS during the installation process.

Step 3: Create a bootable USB drive

To install the new OS, you will need a bootable USB drive or DVD containing the OS installation files. Here's how you can create it:

Creating a bootable USB drive for Windows

1. Download Windows Media Creation Tool from the official Microsoft website.
2. Run the tool and select "Create installation media for another PC."
3. Select the language, edition, and architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).
4. Insert the USB drive and select it as the media to use.
5. Follow the prompts to complete the process.

Creating a bootable USB drive for macOS

1. Download the macOS installer from the App Store.
2. Open Terminal and type the following command: sudo /Applications/Install\ macOS\ [version]\.app/Contents/Resources/createinstallmedia −volume /Volumes/[USB]
3. Replace [version] with the version of macOS you downloaded and [USB] with the name of your USB drive.
4. Press Enter and follow the on-screen instructions.

Creating a bootable USB drive for Linux

1. Download the ISO file of the Linux distribution you want to install.
2. Download a tool like Rufus if you're on Windows, or use built-in utilities like Startup Disk Creator on Linux.
3. Insert the USB drive and open the tool.
4. Select the ISO file and USB drive, then start the process.

Step 4: Change the boot order in BIOS/UEFI

To allow your computer to boot from a USB drive, you may need to change the boot order in the BIOS/UEFI settings. Here's how you can do it:

1. Restart your computer and press the key to enter the BIOS/UEFI. This key varies but is often F2, F12, Delete, or Esc.
2. Navigate to the Boot Menu using the arrow keys.
3. Change the boot order so that the USB drive is first.
4. Save the BIOS/UEFI settings and exit.

Step 5: Begin the installation process

Once your computer boots from the USB drive, you can begin the installation process of your chosen OS. Here's how you can typically install each OS:

Installing Windows

1. Once it boots from USB, you will see the Windows setup screen. Choose your language, time, and keyboard preferences and click "Next."
2. Click "Install Now."
3. You may be asked to enter a product key now or later. You can select "I don't have a product key" to skip this.
4. Select the Windows version you want to install (if applicable).
5. Accept the license terms and click "Next."
6. Select "Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)" for the new installation.
7. Select the partition where you want to install Windows. It is usually best to delete all existing partitions and create a new one.
8. The installation process will begin. Your computer may restart several times.
9. Once completed, follow the on-screen instructions to set up your new Windows environment – configure your username, password, and other preferences.

Installing macOS

1. Boot from the USB drive by holding down the Option key while starting up your Mac.
2. Select the USB drive from the list of bootable drives.
3. You will enter the macOS Utilities screen. Select "Install macOS" and click "Continue."
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to select the drive and start the installation process.
5. Once the installation is complete, your Mac will restart and guide you through the setup process where you configure your language, keyboard, Apple ID, and other settings.

Installing Linux

1. Boot your computer from the USB drive. You will see the welcome screen of the Linux distribution.
2. Select "Install [your distribution]."
3. Follow the instructions to set your language, time zone, and keyboard layout.
4. When prompted for the installation type, choose whether to erase the disk and install a new one, or install alongside another OS.
5. Select the partition scheme if necessary. Most beginners can go with the default settings.
6. Start the installation process by clicking "Install."
7. Once the installation is complete, reboot your computer and remove the USB drive.
8. Complete the setup by creating your username and password and adjusting basic settings.

Step 6: Install drivers and updates

Once the OS installation is complete, you should install the necessary drivers to ensure that your hardware works properly. Follow these steps:

• Windows: Windows usually installs most drivers automatically, but some may need to be downloaded from the manufacturer's website. Go to Device Manager to check if any drivers are missing.
• macOS: macOS usually includes all necessary drivers. For any additional peripheral hardware, you may need to visit the manufacturer's site.
• Linux: Many drivers are included with the Linux kernel, but specific hardware may require additional drivers to be installed from a software repository or the hardware manufacturer's site.

Also remember to install OS updates to keep your system secure and up-to-date.

Step 7: Install the required software

Finally, you can install the software you need for your daily tasks. Here are some common software types to consider:

• Web browser: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari.
• Office suites: Microsoft Office, LibreOffice.
• Media player: VLC Media Player, iTunes.
• Security software: Antivirus program (Windows), firewall settings, etc.
• Programming IDE: Visual Studio Code, PyCharm, IntelliJ IDEA.

Conclusion

Installing a new operating system may seem like a daunting task, but with the right preparation and this step-by-step guide, you will find it a manageable and even rewarding experience. Properly backing up your data, creating a bootable USB, and following the specific installation for your OS will help you achieve a smooth installation. Remember to update your drivers and OS, and install the necessary software to get the most out of your new system. Enjoy your newly installed operating system!

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