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Before You Begin

You are about to change the operating system on your computer. This means removing Windows and installing Linux. You will be guided step by step, but you are still in control of the process.

Person using Linux on a laptop

Who this is for

This guide is for people who:

  • Have a computer that cannot run Windows 11
  • Want to keep using their device
  • Are willing to follow instructions carefully

You do not need technical experience.

Important warning about your files

This process can erase everything on your computer.

Before you continue, you must back up your files:

  • Documents
  • Photos
  • Desktop
  • Downloads

If you skip this, you may lose your data permanently.

Time required

Set aside about 1 to 2 hours.

Some steps are quick. Others take time, such as creating a USB drive or installing the system.

Do not rush.

What you will need

Before starting, make sure you have

  • At least one USB drive (8 GB minimum, 32-64 GB recommended)
  • A working internet connection
  • Your power cable plugged in
  • Your Wi-Fi name and password

If possible, use two USB drives

  • one for the installer
  • one for backup

What can go wrong

Most computers work fine with this process, but not all.

Possible issues include:

  • No Wi-Fi after installation
  • Display problems
  • Hardware not fully supported

If something does not work, help is available later in the guide.

What happens next

The first step is to check if your computer can run Windows 11.

If it can, you may not need this guide.

If it cannot, you will continue with the process.