To install Linux Mint on your system you should first download the Linux Mint ISO image at https://www.linuxmint.com/download.php
Since Linux Mint is its own distribution, you have a choice of desktops. In this install process, we will cover Cinnamon Desktop which is the most popular Desktop for Linux Mint.
After downloading the ISO Image create a Flash Drive for the install. (See our guide on how to create a Flash Drive using Rufus).
After creating the Flash Drive we will start the installation process. You should look up on your system Manufacturer’s website on how to boot your system from Flash Drive.
Install Ubuntu Mate
Once your computer reboots into your USB drive, you’ll be ready to begin installing Linux Mint:
When you boot the computer from the USB stick, Linux Mint starts a live session. It logs you in automatically as a user called mint and shows you a desktop with the installer on it:
The live session is similar to a normal session (i.e. to Linux Mint once it is permanently installed on the computer), but with the following exceptions:
- The Live session is slower (it is loaded from a USB stick or DVD as opposed to an SSD or HDD).
- Changes you make in the live session are not permanent. They are not written to the USB stick, and they do not impact the system installed by the installer.
- Some applications work differently (or not at all) in the live session (Timeshift, Flatpak, Update Manager, Welcome Screen..etc.).
To permanently install Linux Mint on your computer:
- Double-click Install Linux Mint.
- Select your language.
Connect to the Internet.
If you are connected to the Internet, tick the box to install the multimedia codecs.
Choose an installation type.
If Linux Mint is the only operating system you want to run on this computer and all data can be lost on the hard drive, choose Erase disk and install Linux Mint.
If another operating system is present on the computer, the installer shows you an option to install Linux Mint alongside it. If you choose this option, the installer automatically resizes your existing operating system, makes room and installs Linux Mint beside it. A boot menu is set up to choose between the two operating systems each time you start your computer.
Next select your timezone
Select your keyboard layout
Enter your user details
Your name can be your real name, but it doesn’t have to be. It is only used locally, in the screensaver and on the login screen.
Your username is what you log in as, and your hostname is the name of your computer on the network.
To prevent bugs only use lowercase characters, with no punctuation or accentuation.
To protect your personal data against local attacks (people around you, or in case your computer gets stolen), tick Encrypt my home folder.
Choose a strong password
Enjoy the slideshow while Linux Mint is installed on your computer.
When the installation is finished, click Restart Now.
The computer will then start to shut down and ask you to remove the USB disk (or DVD). Upon reboot, your computer should show you a boot menu or start your newly installed Linux Mint operating system.
Now that you have installed Linux Mint head to our Mint Customization page to learn how you can change the system to fit your taste.
