How Do I Install Linux on a Brand New Computer?

I have a new laptop,  Windows 11.  I haven't set it up yet.  Is  there a way I can install Linux instead of Windows or do I have to install W11 first and then switch?  Thanks

You  could optionally install Linux and keep the Windows too. It's Dual Booting. You can have both OSes. Or wipe the Windows during the install and just use Linux.

Installing Linux is relatively easy as many are very GUI friendly.

But the biggest question is WHICH Linux have you selected or are interested in - there are many distros (variations) to choose from and use.  

Mint is popular among many, but then so are many others - select  one that is stable and easy to use and is properly supported for updates and has a good and varied repository.

 https://distrowatch.com/

I don't want a "Dual" boot.  Thanks.

Then wipe out the Windows when installing the Linux. It will then be completely gone and have just the Linux. Completely clean and clear from MS.

And there is no need to open the Windows - just use a USB stick with the Linux install and install Linux unto the main drive directly from the hardware's boot menu.
I haven't used Linux in many years but the idea is still the same.

Edited by 0lds0d, 22 November 2023 - 08:30 AM.

Don't I have to set a boot order to access the USB - or are brand new computers set up so the USB access at start up is hot? 

1) Install Linux to a USB drive (You can use Rufus for this

2) Plug in your USB drive

3) Boot into your BIOS/UEFI and set the boot order so that the USB boots first, save and restart

4) You should be greeted with your Linux boto screen. It will allow you to try it first or install. I suggest trying it first to make sure everything works (i.e. trackpad, wifi)

5) If you like it, you can install it from your live session

6) Follow the prompts to install it on your computer

Alternatively, without going into the BIOS/UEFI try this:

From a cold start up; first plugin in the prepared USB (with Linux), power on,  and immediately use the hot key (keep tapping like mad) and use the appropriate key to bring up the Boot Menu and then select the correct drive (USB) and away it goes onto the Linux.

And as already suggested use Rufus to live boot the Linux from the USB to prep it first before attempting the install.

https://techofide.com/blogs/boot-menu-option-keys-for-all-computers-and-laptops-updated-list-2021-techofide/#:~:text=The%20keys%20that%20are%20generally,of%20the%20computers%20or%20motherboards.

Edited by 0lds0d, 22 November 2023 - 10:50 AM.

Has anyone reading this actually did a clean install or dual boot install on a new Windows 11 computer?

It is much different than doing that on older computers.

LittleGreenDots....What is the brand name and model of the new laptop?

Have a look in bios before you start

1) Disable windows quick-start [fast-boot]
2] disable Secure boot?

It is good practise to check the integrity of the downloaded .iso

If you download the .iso via a torrent, there is no need to check.

Be sure to tick the box for extra drivers etc as it installs

select the install option to occupy the whole drive

The model and make of the lapptop would be good.....brand new could bring about a slightly different approach

 

LittleGreenDots....What is the brand name and model of the new laptop?

Lenovo IPG3.

I want to make sure anyone reading this knows I do not have Windows installed.  There is no installed OS at this time.  Thanks.

Edited by LittleGreenDots, 22 November 2023 - 02:12 PM.

Give a link to where you purchased this laptop without Windows being installed. I'm assuming it is new

and not a refurbished laptop.

It will likely not make a jot of difference whether it is new or refurbished.

The OP said he had a new laptop.....meaning new to him

Is this the same computer as in this thread?

https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/t/791618/setting-up-a-w11-laptop-local-account/

https://forums.lenovo.com/t5/Ubuntu/Install-Ubuntu-on-ideapad-Gaming-3-15IMH05-Laptop-Type-81Y4/m-p/5245823

https://9to5linux.com/best-linux-distros-for-the-lenovo-ideapad-gaming-3-amd-gaming-laptop

Edited by 0lds0d, 22 November 2023 - 07:53 PM.

Give a link to where you purchased this laptop without Windows being installed. I'm assuming it is new

and not a refurbished laptop.

I think I misunderstood.  This is a brand new computer and I purchased it from a legit brick and mortar store. It has Windows 11 but I haven't set it up yet.  That's what I meant.  What I am uncertain about is l- do I have to go through the process of installing Windows 11 in order to gain have control  so I can set the boot order to USB?  I tried to do a local account but the popular methods have been patched.  I tried bringing up the cmd and doing the oobe and also bringing up the task manager to disable  the network connection flow service.  SHIFT+ F10.  But my keyboard was disabled.  And after I did a power reboot - the second time when I brought up the cmd - it disappeared after a second.  So MS is onto these methods.  I have been considering Linux for years now and even did try Cinnamon Mint.  I've made some other arrangements and would like to give 'life without microsoft' a try. 

Just to clarify - the computer does have windows 11 - I just didn't set it up;  Thanks.

Is this the same computer as in this thread?

 

https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/t/791618/setting-up-a-w11-laptop-local-account/

yes