Create Custom Ubuntu Live CD/USB - Easy Guide
Creating Custom Ubuntu Live CDs: An Overview
Various methods exist for generating personalized Ubuntu live CDs. Previously, we explored the utilization of the Reconstructor web application. However, feedback from readers suggested considering the Ubuntu Customization Kit as an alternative.
Introducing the Ubuntu Customization Kit
The Ubuntu Customization Kit (UCK) is an open-source tool readily available within Ubuntu’s official software repositories.
UCK vs. Reconstructor: A Comparison
While UCK provides a more extensive range of capabilities compared to Reconstructor, the latter generally simplifies tasks for individuals with limited experience.
It is worthwhile to evaluate both options; Reconstructor remains a viable choice, particularly for beginners.
UCK offers greater control and customization options for advanced users.
Consider your technical proficiency when selecting the appropriate tool for creating your custom Ubuntu live CD.
Utilizing the Ubuntu Customization Kit
The Ubuntu Customization Kit (UCK) is readily available through the Ubuntu Software Center for convenient installation.
Alternatively, installation can be performed directly from the command line using the following command:
sudo apt-get install uck
A foundational ISO image is also required as the basis for your customizations. This image can be obtained from the official Ubuntu website.
Selecting the Correct ISO Image
Ensure the downloaded ISO image aligns with your system’s architecture. For instance, systems utilizing a 32-bit architecture necessitate the i386 ISO, rather than the amd64 version.
It's important to note that 64-bit operating systems possess the capability to execute 32-bit software, allowing for the use of a 32-bit ISO image even on a 64-bit system.
Creating a Personalized Live CD
The Ubuntu Customization Kit can be initiated from your desktop's dash. Alternatively, the uck-gui command can be directly executed within a terminal window.
UCK will present the system requirements – a minimum of 5GB of free disk space on your computer and an active Internet connection. The kit operates utilizing a chroot environment for modifications.
The subsequent screen requests the installation of language packs. In my case, this screen appeared blank, likely due to pre-existing language packs on the system. You may proceed by clicking OK.
You will then be presented with a screen allowing selection of the languages to be included on the live CD.
Following this, you are prompted to designate a default language for the live CD. This feature proves valuable for crafting live CDs tailored to regions where English is not the preferred language.
Next, specify the Ubuntu ISO image that was previously downloaded. You will also be asked to provide a unique name for your newly created live CD.
UCK offers the option for manual customization of the live CD, should you desire it.
After indicating whether to remove Windows-related files – such as the auto-run application triggered when inserting a Ubuntu CD into a Windows machine – click OK to initiate the live CD build process. Password authentication will be required via the terminal.
Subsequently, you may be presented with options to further customize the live CD using a package manager or a terminal window. These options become available only if manual customization was selected.
It appears that the package manager component is currently non-functional in Ubuntu 11.10, a known issue. Previously, this component functioned similarly to the Synaptic application.
The "Run Console Application" option allows access to a specialized terminal window. This terminal represents the live CD environment, and any commands executed within it will directly impact your customized live CD. Standard apt-get commands can be used to install software for inclusion in the live CD.
Once finished, type 'exit' into the terminal and select "Continue building" to proceed. UCK will then finalize and construct your personalized live CD.
Upon completion of the process, the system will inform you of the location where the newly created ISO image file has been saved.
You can then proceed to locate the ISO file. A right-click on the file will reveal an option to burn it to an optical disc.
Creating a Bootable USB from a Live CD Image
Once a live CD image has been obtained, the Startup Disk Creator tool, which is integrated within Ubuntu, can be utilized to generate a bootable USB drive. Initiate the application by launching it from the application launcher, then designate the newly downloaded ISO file as the source disk image.
Using Startup Disk Creator
The process is straightforward and user-friendly. Simply select the ISO and the target USB drive, and the tool will handle the rest of the operation.
This method provides a convenient way to create bootable media without needing to manually configure boot sectors or use command-line tools.
Consider this a simple alternative to more complex methods.
Share Your Experiences
Have you experimented with tools like UCK or Reconstructor? We are interested in your preferences. Please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below.
Your feedback helps us understand which tools are most valuable to the community.
Let us know which tool you find most effective and why.