Introduction to Debian

Introduction to Debian

Debian is an operating system which is based on the GNU or Linux. The Debian operating system is free and open source which is like all other Linux distributions. Debian is quite popular among all operating systems and Linux distributions. It is used for both desktops as well as server use. It competes with several notable OS such as the Ubuntu and Red Hat. Debian development and distribution are managed by a non-profit organization which is also driven by the Debian community all across the world. These OS can be downloaded for free from its website. In this section, we provide a detailed guide on step by step installation of the Debian system. To install Debian we only require an Internet connection, DVD/CD or USB stick and some familiarity with computer.

Steps to Install

Let us discuss the steps required to install Debian. We explain two methods of installation. The first method describes how to install Debian via a CD and the second method explains how to install Debian via a flash drive. Each method is explained below.

1. Install Debian through CD/DVD

Step 1: Back up any important files on your computer

When we install any operating system such as Debian, it clears all pre-available data and hence it is important to take a back-up. We must store all important data from the computer to a removable media such as DVD, flash drive, memory chip, external hard disk etc. before starting with Debian installation process.

Step 2: Navigate your web browser to the Debian website.

As a next step, we need to connect to the internet and browse to Debian website to download the necessary files for installation. To make this step happen, we must have an internet connection. Depending upon the internet speed, it may take up several minutes to download the files as the size is quite high. If you already have a DVD with Debian image available on it, then you can skip this step.

Step 3: Download the Debian installation image.

From the website, we need to install Debian installation image appropriate for our use. This can be done through a few simple clicks and then we can see a pop-up window where download gets started. As mentioned above, depending upon the internet speed, it may take some time to finish the installation. We can find two different versions of Debian image – one for 32-bit architecture and another for 64 bits. Depending upon the computer you have, you should pick either 32 bit or 64 bits.

Also, we should download the latest version for better functionality.

Step 4: Burn the installation image to a CD or DVD.

Now, that we have downloaded the required software, we need to burn it to a DVD or CD. We shall use this software in the next step while starting with the actual installation. Burning of DVD should be straightforward. Just right click on the downloaded software and select the option burn to the disk. After a couple of clicks, it should be done.

Please ensure to insert a blank disc in disc driver before starting the burning process.

Step 5: Boot your computer from the newly-burned disc.

After the burning is complete, restart your computer keeping the DVD in the DVD drive. While it restarts, you can get a message asking if you want to boot from the drive. Select yes. A Debian installation wizard will pop up and it will explain the various steps that need to be followed.

Step 6: Test Debian Live from the disc if desired.

Debian also includes an additional option that allows you to run the operating system from the CD or DVD, without overwriting any information and this option is called Debian Live. If you choose this option, it allows you to test Debian before installation. But it will impact performance and the system becomes quite slow.

Step 7: Install Debian according to the instructions in the installation wizard.

Now, you only need to follow instructions as shown in the installation wizard and click a few buttons. After that, the installation process will complete. Please note that during installation, the system will restart many times and after all step is completed, you will get a welcome message. Please ensure uninterrupted power supply throughout the installation process. If you are installing in the laptop, keep it charged or connect to a power source.

2. Install Debian through Flash drive

Most of the steps in this method are also same as an above method so for the similar step we shall not provide the detailed description, but only the bullet points so that the user could follow the process correctly.

Step 1: Back up any important files.

As above, back up all your data before starting with the installation.

Step 2: Find a USB stick and back up all of its contents.

You can back up your data in a USB stick but for convenient, pick a different stick than the one in which you can go to keep the Debian software file.

Step 3: Download the disk image file.

Download the Debian image as explained above from its website and then put it into the USB stick.

Step 4: Load the installer onto the USB stick.

Once, the downloaded file is copied to the USB stick, the system can be switched off or restarted to begin the installation process similar to the above method.

Step 5: Reboot your computer and enter the boot menu

After reboot, enter the BIOS menu and follows the steps explained there. Typically used keys are F2, F11, F12, and Del. Once you see the USB option, select and continue with the installation.

Step 6: Follow the instructions in the installation wizard

Continue following instructions from time to time. Installation process may take several minutes to finish. You must enter the required information at every step whenever it prompts. In case, both Debian and windows are desired, or any two OS is needed then the option to partition your hard drive should be selected which comes almost at the end of the installation process.

This way, a user can follow one of the above methods whichever is easy and convenient for him/ her to install the Debian system on their computer.