3 Ways to Install Ubuntu on a USB Stick From Windows

Looking for a portable Linux setup or just want to try Ubuntu without touching your main hard drive? Installing Ubuntu on a USB stick is a simple way to carry your OS and files anywhere. If you’re starting from Windows, here are three straightforward methods to get the job done.

1. Using Rufus: The Quick and Easy Way

Rufus is a free, no-nonsense tool built exactly for this purpose. Here’s how to use it:

Steps:

1. Download Ubuntu
   Go to ubuntu.com and grab the ISO file for the version you want.
2. Get Rufus
   Download Rufus from rufus.ie. No installation needed—just run it.
3. Plug In Your USB Stick
   Make sure it’s at least 8GB (16GB+ recommended).
4. Set Up Rufus
   • Select your USB device.
   • Click “SELECT” and pick the Ubuntu ISO.
   • Keep the defaults for Partition Scheme (MBR for most) and File System (FAT32).
   • Click START.
5. Wait for Completion
   Rufus will wipe the drive, write Ubuntu, and let you know when it’s done.

Result:
You’ll have a bootable Ubuntu USB stick ready for Live sessions or installation.

2. With balenaEtcher: For Beginners Who Want It Foolproof

balenaEtcher is dead simple—minimal settings, no confusion.

Steps:

1. Download balenaEtcher from balena.io/etcher.
2. Run Etcher
   No install needed. Just launch.
3. Pick Your Image
   Click “Flash from file” and choose the Ubuntu ISO.
4. Select Your USB Stick
   Be sure you pick the right drive!
5. Click “Flash!”
   That’s it. Wait for the process to finish.

Result:
Bootable Ubuntu USB in minutes, no fuss.

3. Using Ventoy: Multi-Boot USB Power

If you want a USB that holds multiple ISOs (Ubuntu, Windows, Fedora, etc.), Ventoy is your friend.

Steps:

1. Download Ventoy from ventoy.net.
2. Extract & Run Ventoy2Disk.exe
   Choose your USB drive and click Install (this will erase the drive).
3. Copy Ubuntu ISO to USB
   After installation, just drag the Ubuntu ISO (and any others) onto the USB stick like regular files.
4. Boot From USB
   Ventoy gives you a menu to pick which ISO to run.

Result:
A flexible USB stick that can boot into any OS you want, not just Ubuntu.

Final Tips

• Back Up First: These processes erase all data on the USB.
• Use a Fast USB 3.0 Stick: You’ll thank yourself for the speed boost.
• Test the USB: Reboot your PC and boot from the stick to check everything works.

Whether you want a live Ubuntu system for quick tasks, a full portable OS, or a multi-boot toolbox, these three methods will cover you—no Linux knowledge required.

Questions or tips of your own? Drop them in the comments below!

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!