Want to convert, but how?

[Franknj229]

Hi all,

Is there a sticky or a file somewhere that lists step by step instructions on how to convert to Ubuntu? I tried searching the forum, but everything I found was "I finished the install, but now...." or "After installing such-and-such-aspect-of-ubuntu, how do I....?"

I literally need to start with step-1. I've been using Ubuntu as a guest in a Vista host for many years now. So long, in fact, that my version of Ubuntu can't even be upgraded to a newer version, and I don't remember how I set that up to begin with! I have a laptop with Windows 10 on it, so I just want to convert my Desktop to the latest version of Ubuntu. I think this will help me get more comfortable using it, but in the meantime, I don't even know where to begin.

What should I download? Where should I save it? How do I install it? Will I be able to go online immediately when it's done installing? Etc, etc, etc.....

I would like to install a VM too, but first things first. How do I become 100% Ubuntu'd? :-)

If this is the wrong place for this, please let me know. I am aware of my inexperience in this area and don't mean to upset anyone.

Thank you for any help you can provide!

-Frank

[oldfred]

What system?
If older Vista system you may need something lighter weight like Lubuntu.
Often best to use the LTS or long term support version or 16.04.
If newer system, you probably need newest available version to have latest kernel & drivers.

You can download Ubuntu here:
Also link on how to create a bootable DVD or USB flash drive, Windows or Ubuntu, Min hardware requirements
http://www.ubuntu.com/download/desktop
http://www.ubuntu.com/download

Try Ubuntu (Kubuntu, Lubuntu, Xubuntu, ...) before installing it
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=2230389

Lightweight flavors
Lubuntu, xubuntu, Ubuntu mate, Budgie
https://wiki.ubuntu.com/UbuntuFlavors

After you try the live install in live mode to become somewhat acquainted with it and know it works with your hardware then you can install. DVD or Flash drive will not be as fast as full install to hard drive.

If you just want Ubuntu and do not want to save anything else on entire hard drive or have it fully backed up(recommended), then you can just in live installer choose the install option that erases entire drive. Do no think in Windows terms where it calls a drive what really is a partition. A drive is the entire physical device. A partition then is sub-divisions of that device.

[Franknj229]

Thanks oldfred! This is exactly what I needed and it's working great!