How to Install and Run Linux on a USB Drive (No Installation Needed)

Want to try Linux without installing it on your computer? A live boot USB lets you run Linux on any computer without making permanent changes. This guide will show you how to create a bootable Linux USB drive and start using Linux immediately.

Step 1: Download a Linux Distribution

Visit the official website of a Linux distribution, such as:
Ubuntu
Linux Mint
Debian
Download the ISO file of your preferred Linux version.

Step 2: Get a Bootable USB Creator

You need a tool to create the bootable USB:

Windows: Use Rufus.
Mac: Use Balena Etcher.
Linux: Use dd or Ventoy.

Step 3: Create a Bootable Linux USB

Follow these steps:

Insert a USB drive (minimum 8GB recommended).
Open your chosen USB creator tool.
Select the downloaded Linux ISO file.
Choose the USB drive as the target device.
Click Start and wait for the process to complete.

Creating a bootable USB drive

Step 4: Boot from the USB Drive

Once your bootable USB is ready, restart your computer and follow these steps:

Press the BIOS/boot menu key (F2, F12, DEL, or ESC) during startup.
Select the USB drive from the boot menu.
Choose Try Linux (or similar) to run it without installation.

Step 5: Explore Linux

You can now use Linux directly from the USB:

Browse the internet using the built-in browser.
Open the terminal and run commands.
Test software and applications.
Save files (if persistence is enabled).

Step 6: Optional – Enable Persistence

If you want to save settings and files between reboots, enable persistence:

Use Rufus and select "Persistent Storage" during creation.
Check if your Linux distro supports persistence.

Step 7: Exit Linux and Remove USB

To exit Linux:

Click the power menu and select Shut Down.
Remove the USB drive before restarting.

Conclusion

Running Linux from a USB is a great way to explore the OS without installing it. Now you can use Linux anywhere without affecting your main system. For more details, check the Linux Foundation.