Ubuntu Linux

Create a Bootable USB in Ubuntu Linux

Written by

Richard

Sep 3, 2022 Updated Mar 22, 2026 3 min read

You can create a bootable USB drive in install-display-language-in-ubuntu-linux/" class="sal-link" rel="noopener" target="_blank" data-sal-id="8530">Ubuntu Linux using the built-in Startup Disk Creator tool.

A bootable USB, often called a startup disk, lets you install or repair an operating system from a portable drive, and Ubuntu’s tool makes this process straightforward.

Your USB drive needs at least 2GB of space to successfully create a bootable Ubuntu disk.

Remember, this process will erase all data on the USB drive, so back up anything important first.

You’ll need an ISO image file of the Ubuntu version you wish to put on the USB drive.

How to create a startup disk in Ubuntu Linux

As described above, users can use Startup Disk Creator to create a startup disk that can be used to install or repair their computer.

It’s assumed that you have downloaded an Ubuntu ISO image.

To create a startup disk from an Ubuntu ISO image.

Open Startup Disk Creator via the Activities search bar and launch the app.

Ubuntu Startup Disk Creator application window interface

If the ISO image is in your Download folder and there is just one ISO image, Startup Disk Creator will have selected it; otherwise, select the correct ISO image you want to install.

If your computer has just one USB flash drive, Startup Disk Creator will have selected it; otherwise, select the correct driver into which the USB flash drive is plugged.

Click Make Startup Disk.

Startup Disk Creator Make button to create bootable USB

Click Yes to confirm. The process should take ten minutes or less.

Ubuntu startup disk creation process in progress on USB

When the “Installation Complete” window opens, click Quit.

When you’re done, grab the USB flash drive and boot the computer you want to install Ubuntu on from the drive. If the computer boots properly, Ubuntu Linux should be installed on the computer.

That should do it!

Conclusion:

Creating a startup disk in Ubuntu Linux is essential for system recovery and installation.
Ensure the USB flash drive has sufficient storage capacity and no valuable data before creating a startup disk.
The Startup Disk Creator tool simplifies creating a bootable disk from an Ubuntu ISO image.
After following the steps, users can boot their computers from the startup disk to install or repair Ubuntu Linux.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a bootable USB in Ubuntu Linux?

A bootable USB in Ubuntu Linux is a flash drive that contains an operating system image, allowing you to install or repair Ubuntu on a computer. It is created using tools like Startup Disk Creator and requires a minimum of 2GB of storage.

How do I create a bootable USB using Startup Disk Creator?

To create a bootable USB using Startup Disk Creator, open the application, select the downloaded Ubuntu ISO image and the USB drive, then click 'Make Startup Disk' and confirm the action. The process typically takes ten minutes or less.

Will creating a bootable USB erase my data?

Yes, creating a bootable USB will erase all data on the flash drive. It's important to back up any important files before proceeding with the startup disk creation.

What should I do if my USB drive is not detected by Startup Disk Creator?

If your USB drive is not detected, ensure it is properly connected and recognized by your system. You may also try using a different USB port or checking if the drive is formatted correctly.

Can I use any USB flash drive to create a bootable disk?

You can use any USB flash drive with at least 2GB of storage to create a bootable disk. However, it's recommended to use a reliable and high-speed USB drive for better performance during installation.

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About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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