knowledge-base

How To Install An Operating System

by Rustam Iqbal

The operating system (OS) is the backbone of all the software installed on a computer. Knowing how to install an operating system is a skill everyone should know when purchasing or building a PC. It is a complex combination of computer programs that utilizes hardware and software to achieve tasks.

Installing An Operating System

Installing An Operating System

Each operating system is designed for specific devices and users. For example, Microsoft Windows, Apple macOS, and Linux are the top most used OS in descending order. Your machine requires an interface accessible with user-friendly options, and the OS is designed to provide you with precisely that.

Before installing an operating system, there are a few things you need to know. Suppose you are installing an operating system for the first time on your computer; then, there is no risk of data loss.

However, installing it on a running computer may lead to losing data. We will provide tips to protect your data by segregating drives in the simplest way possible. You will have to buy one if you don’t own an operating system.

Purchase The Operating System

Before making a purchase, you must determine which operating system is most suitable for your hardware. You can install Windows or Linux for a custom PC and Apple macOS on an Apple device in a broader aspect.

If you are looking for a convenient way to install an OS, purchasing a CD, DVD, or even a USB Flash Drive is the way to go. You can also visit stores like BestBuy to buy the OS copy directly.

The easiest and most convenient way of buying is via online shops. Visit the official website of your operating system to purchase the product directly from the developer. There are online stores like Newegg or Amazon where you can find a good deal or maybe a discount in some scenarios.

Make sure that the hardware requirement for the OS is fulfilled before finalizing your purchase. Downloading from any other unknown source may lead you to a scam or illegal copy of the OS.

Installing After Purchasing a CD/DVD Or USB

Installing After Purchasing a CD/DVD Or USB

The trickiest part is installing the operating system.

Installing After Purchasing a CD/DVD Or USB

Using a CD or DVD to install an operating system is the most convenient way. Before proceeding to the next step, you must have a keyboard connected to the system. After inserting the purchased CD/DVD into your optical drive, you must first ensure that your system is set to boot from the optical drive.

To do that, you will need to access the BIOS first. Most computers enter the BIOS by pressing the function keys F1, F2, F10, or Delete Esc as soon as the first display is shown on the monitor. Scroll through the firmware to find the boot sequence option, as each motherboard will have a different interface. Now set CD/DVD to boot first in the sequence. Save your configuration when exiting the BIOS and make sure the system has now restarted.

Now the computer will enter the setup automatically. Simply follow the step-by-step method to install the windows. Installing it for the first time will allow you to install Windows on a specific drive and even manage the storage space. It is recommended that you make partitions of your storage device and keep the primary partition for OS and the other for storage.

If the operating system fails and you have to reinstall, your critical files will remain safe in the secondary partition. OS will format/erase the drive in which installation will take place.

Note:

If you upgrade your Windows to a newer version, the setup will automatically ask you to upgrade. However, installation of a fresh copy of Windows will require erasing all the data on your previous partition to proceed.

Installing After downloading OS

If you purchase an already prepared USB drive to install the OS, then all you will need to do is set the USB storage drive to boot first. A downloaded copy of the OS will require a CD/DVD or USB preparation after you download the iso file from the official website or online store. You can use Rufus or equivalent for your OS to make a bootable drive.

Simply select the drive you want your setup to be copied, then select the source downloaded file to make your USB or CD/DVD bootable. Later you can follow the same steps as mentioned in the previous section.

Running The Operating System

After you have carefully followed the on-screen instructions, you will end up restarting your PC. The system will automatically boot and ask you a series of questions to give the final, personal touches to your fresh installation. You may need to download and install the latest drivers from the official websites of individual hardware. After that, you can install your desired software and update your settings.

How to fix operating system errors!

It is common to occur errors in the Operating System. If your operating system is not working well, there are a few things you can do:

Restart Your Computer: This may seem simple, but it can often fix minor software glitches.

Check For Updates: Ensure your operating system, drivers, and software are up to date.

Run A Malware Scan: Malware can cause a variety of problems, so it’s important to run a scan regularly to make sure your system is clean.

Start In Safe Mode: This will start your computer with minimal drivers and services, which can help you troubleshoot problems.

Use The System Restore Tool: This can restore your system to a previous point in time when it was working properly.

Re-install Your Operating System: This is a last resort, but it may be necessary if you’ve tried all of the above and your system is still not working well.

Here are some additional tips for troubleshooting specific operating system problems:

Windows: If you’re having problems with Windows, you can try using the Windows Troubleshooter tool. This can automatically identify and fix many common problems. You can also try running the System File Checker tool to scan for and repair corrupted system files.

macOS: If you’re having problems with macOS, you can try using the Apple Diagnostics tool to identify and fix hardware problems. You can also try running the Safe Boot option to start your computer with a minimal set of drivers and services.

Linux: If you’re having problems with Linux, you can try running the Boot Repair tool to fix common boot problems. You can also try running the fsck tool to scan for and repair filesystem errors.

If you’re still having problems with your operating system, you can search online for help or contact the manufacturer of your computer or software for support.

Please Note:

It is important to back up your data before trying any of these troubleshooting steps. This is especially important if you are considering reinstalling your operating system.

Rustam Iqbal

Hi, I'm Rustam Iqbal. I love traveling, computer hardware, and software. I’m constantly trying to learn new skills and programming languages. Reviewing new pieces of hardware is one of my favorites hobbies. Drop by any time to leave me a message if you have any questions.

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