Important
Linux is currently running from your USB drive.
Do not remove the USB until you shut down the computer.
Removing it will stop the system immediately.
Step 8 / 13
Test Linux (Do Not Install Yet)
Check that Linux works properly on your computer before installing it.
You are running Linux directly from the USB drive. Nothing is installed yet. This is a temporary test. This step tells you if your computer will work correctly after installation.
What you should see
After booting from USB, you will see a menu.
Look for:
- Try Linux
- Try without installing
- Live session
Select this option.
Do not choose install.
Wait for the system to load
This may take a minute.
When ready, you will see a desktop.
What to test (do not skip this)
Take a few minutes and check each item.
Display
- Is the screen clear?
- Is the resolution correct?
- Does everything look normal?
Internet (Wi-Fi)
- Connect to your Wi-Fi
- Open a browser
- Load a website
Video and sound
- Open YouTube
- Play a video
Check:
- Does it play smoothly?
- Is the sound working?
Keyboard and touchpad
- Can you type normally?
- Does the touchpad move correctly?
- Can you click and scroll?
General responsiveness
- Open menus
- Move windows
- Click around
Does the system feel usable?
Additional checks (recommended)
Microphone
- Open sound settings
- Check if your microphone is detected
USB ports
Use a second USB device.
Do not remove the Linux USB.
- Plug in another USB device
- Check if it appears
Battery (laptops)
- Is the battery level shown?
- Does charging work?
Sleep and wake
- Put the computer to sleep
- Wake it up again
Check:
- Does it return to the desktop?
- Does Wi-Fi reconnect?
External screen (optional)
- Connect HDMI if you use one
- Check if it works
If everything works
This is a good sign.
You can continue to install Linux.
If something does NOT work
Stop here.
Do not install.
Common problems:
- No Wi-Fi
- Black screen or wrong resolution
- No sound
- Touchpad not working
Installing will not fix these issues.
What to do next
If something failed, stop here and use the Help pages before you try to install anything.
Start with: Help -> Hardware Issues
If you need someone local, use: Help -> Local Linux Support
You can also look for a nearby Linux support group on https://endof10.org/places/
If possible, take a photo of the problem before asking for help.
What happens next
If your tests are successful, you will install Linux on your computer.