How to Install a Kubuntu ISO File

Download and Copy Kubuntu to Disk

1. Determine your processor. In Windows, open the 'Start' menu, click on 'Computer,' then 'System Properties.' If you have a dual-core processor, you can download the 64-bit version of Kubuntu. If you do not, download the i386 version.

2. Download the ISO. Go to the Kubuntu home page and select 'Get Kubuntu' from the top of the page. Select the version for your processor. Choose from the drop-down box where you would like the download to go, and start the download.

3. Once the download is finished, open the ISO file. If you have Windows 7, a Mac or a version of Linux installed, it will automatically open in whatever program you use to burn disks. If you have an older Windows operating system, you will have to use a third-party program to open the ISO. Download and install a software product like ISO Recorder before opening the file. Do not try to write the file directly to the CD-ROM; it will not be usable.

4. Put a blank CD-ROM into your drive.

5. Make sure your program is set to make a disk image and set the speed as low as it can go to prevent errors. Start burning the disk. Do not directly copy the ISO to a data disk: You are using the ISO to make an image of the Kubuntu operating system.

6. When the program is done writing the disk, eject it and label the disk.

Using the Disk

7. As a live CD: Kubuntu can run directly from the CD-ROM without making any changes to your computer. Simply put the disk into the drive and reboot the computer. Most systems are set up to read the CD-ROM before the hard drive and will automatically load Kubuntu. When you are done experimenting, shut down the computer. Eject the disk and boot up normally.

8. With Windows Ubuntu Installer (WUBI): Kubuntu will also install itself into a Windows folder. This version is faster than the CD-ROM, and any updates you make will be saved to your hard drive. Simply start Windows like you normally would, and open the Kubuntu disk in 'My Computer.' Look for the 'WUBI' file and run it. Kubuntu will guide you through the rest of the process.When done, you will have to reboot the computer. When you do, you will see a new screen on startup that asks whether you want to run Windows or Kubuntu. Just use the arrow keys to select the one you want and hit 'Enter.'

9. Full install: Kubuntu also includes a full install option. This can either replace your current operating system or allow for dual booting like the WUBI installer. For more information on permanently installing Kubuntu, see the Kubuntu website.