Install Ubuntu with Windows - Wubi Installer Guide
Exploring Ubuntu Linux with the Wubi Installer
If you're interested in experiencing Ubuntu Linux but are hesitant about partitioning your drive, utilizing a potentially sluggish live CD, or lacking the necessary resources for a virtual machine, the Wubi installer offers a streamlined solution. Wubi is an officially endorsed Ubuntu installer designed to simplify the process for Windows users venturing into the Linux world.
Wubi Installation: A Familiar Process
Installing Ubuntu via Wubi closely resembles installing any standard software application within Windows. This eliminates the complexities associated with partition creation or virtual machine configuration. Wubi has been a supported installation method for several years, integrated into the Ubuntu Live CD since version 8.04 "Hardy Heron".
We will examine both installing Wubi from the Ubuntu Live CD and downloading the Wubi.exe file independently to initiate the Ubuntu installation.
Installing Ubuntu with Wubi from the Ubuntu CD
First, ensure you have downloaded the Ubuntu Live ISO image and successfully burned it to a CD. Within Windows, insert the Ubuntu 9.10 installation disc and execute the wubi.exe file. From the Ubuntu Menu screen, select the "Install inside Windows" option.
At the Ubuntu Installer screen, you will be prompted to choose your preferred language, the installation drive, the allocated installation size, and your desired username and password. Once these settings are configured, click "Install" to begin the process.
Allow a few moments for the installation to commence...
Upon completion, a system restart is required. You can initiate this restart immediately or postpone it for a later time.
Installing Ubuntu Directly from Wubi.exe
Alternatively, if you don't have the Ubuntu CD readily available, you can download the Wubi Installer directly and start the installation process. This approach further simplifies the procedure, as it bypasses the need to download the ISO and burn it to a disc.
A key advantage of this method is the expanded selection of Desktop Environments available for installation. In this example, we will choose the Kubuntu environment.
During installation, the appropriate ISO image for the selected desktop environment will be downloaded automatically. Kubuntu utilizes the KDE environment, which differs from the Gnome environment used in standard Ubuntu. KDE is often considered more visually rich and may offer a more familiar experience for users transitioning from Windows.
Regardless of the installation route chosen, all Ubuntu files are stored within the C:\Ubuntu directory.
Booting into Ubuntu
After the initial reboot, the Windows Boot Manager will present you with a choice between Windows 7 and Ubuntu.
The first time you boot into Ubuntu, a brief period of finalization will occur. A series of screens will appear, followed by the main installation screen displaying progress and highlighting features of Ubuntu 9.10.
Your system will reboot once more, again presenting the option to choose between Windows 7 and Ubuntu.
Selecting Ubuntu from the bootloader will launch the GRUB bootloader, allowing you to select Ubuntu, Recovery Mode, or return to the Windows 7 Boot Manager.
At the Ubuntu login screen, you will be prompted to enter the username and password you specified during the installation process.
This completes the installation! You can now easily boot into Ubuntu and explore this popular Linux distribution.
Here's a glimpse of the Kubuntu interface after some personalization...
To configure the default boot system, navigate to Advanced System Settings > Startup and Recovery within Windows and select your preferred operating system. Further guidance on accessing these settings can be found in The Geek's article: Easily Set Default OS in a Windows7/Vista Dual Boot Setup.
Uninstalling Ubuntu
Should you decide to remove Ubuntu, the process is equally straightforward. Boot into Windows 7 and access the Add / Remove Programs control panel...
Alternatively, you can utilize a dedicated uninstaller utility such as Revo Uninstaller.
The uninstallation process is remarkably simple, requiring only confirmation of your intent to remove Ubuntu...
That's all there is to it! Ubuntu will be uninstalled, and your hard drive space will be reclaimed. Upon rebooting, your PC will boot directly into Windows, without any lingering GRUB or bootloader configurations.
Conclusion
The Wubi installer represents a remarkably accessible entry point for beginners seeking to explore Ubuntu Linux. It eliminates the need for partition manipulation and offers a remarkably simple installation experience. This guide utilized Windows 7, but the process should be compatible with Windows 98 through Windows 7 – excluding Windows ME, which is generally not recommended. If you're seeking a hassle-free way to begin using Ubuntu Linux, the Wubi installation method is an excellent choice.
- Download Wubi Installer
- Download Ubuntu 9.10