How to download and install Linux
Article • 01/22/2024
Linux is an operating system,
similar to Windows, but with many different versions due
to the nature of being open source and fully customizable. To install Linux, you must
choose an install method and choose a Linux distribution.
To install Linux:
1.
Choose
an install method
: Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), Bare metal Linux;
or create a Virtual Machine (VM) to run Linux locally or in the cloud.
2.
Choose a Linux distribution
: Ubuntu, Debian,
Kali Linux, openSUSE, etc.
3.
Follow the steps for your preferred install method
:
Use the install Linux command with Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)
Create a Linux Virtual Machine (VM)
in the cloud
Create a Linux Virtual Machine (VM) on your local machine
Create a bootable USB to install bare-metal Linux
4.
After
installing Linux
: Get familiar with your distribution's package manager,
update and upgrade the packages available, and
get familiar with the other
Linux
resources at Microsoft
, such as training courses, Linux-versions
of popular tools,
news, and Open Source events.
The choice of which method to use for installing Linux depends on your needs and
preferences.
New to using Linux?
We recommend starting with Windows Subsystem for Linux
(WSL) as it's the easiest way to get up and running.
Work in a business environment with more complex needs related to scale or
security?
We recommend running Linux as a Virtual Machine (VM) in the cloud and
checking out the support that Azure has to offer. This also applies if you want to
run Linux as a server.
