How to Allocate Disk Space When Installing Ubuntu

When installing Ubuntu, you have multiple options for allocating disk space. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you can allocate space effectively and efficiently.

Preparation

Backup Data: Always back up your important data before making any changes to partitions. Failure to do so may result in data loss.

Create Installation Media: To proceed with the installation, you need to create a bootable USB drive or DVD with the Ubuntu installation media. You can use tools like Rufus for Windows or Ubuntu Startup Disk Creator for Linux. Boot from Installation Media: Insert your bootable USB or DVD and restart your computer. Access the boot menu, usually by pressing F12, F2, Esc, or Del, and select the installation media. Start the Installation Process: Once booted into the live session, you will be prompted to choose your language and click Forward.

Installation Type

If you are installing Ubuntu for the first time, or if you want a clean install, the following options are available:

Erase disk and install Ubuntu: This option will delete all data on the disk and install Ubuntu. Proceed with caution to avoid losing important data. Install Ubuntu alongside [existing OS]: This option will set up a dual-boot system and automatically allocate space for Ubuntu. It is less risky than the first option. Something else: This option allows for manual partitioning, giving you full control over disk space allocation. This is the most flexible option and requires more knowledge of disk management.

Manual Partitioning: Something Else

If you select Something else, the following steps will guide you through manual partitioning:

Identify Your Drive

Select the drive where you want to install Ubuntu, for example, /dev/sda. Ensure you understand which drive is being used to avoid data loss.

Create Partitions

Root Partition: This partition will hold the operating system. The recommended size is at least 20 GB more if you plan to install many applications. Format it as Ext4 and set the mount point to /. Swap Partition: This acts as virtual memory. The recommended size is equal to your RAM size if you have less than 8 GB, or half of your RAM size if more. Format it as Swap area. Home Partition (Optional): This partition will store user files. Allocate as much space as you can, and format it as Ext4. Set the mount point to /home.

Create the Partitions

Select free space and click on Create. Specify the size type (primary or logical) and file system as needed.

Click on Create to finalize the partitioning process. Tick the box for the swap partition, ensuring it is marked as a swap area. Select the bootloader installation device, usually the same drive where the root partition is located. Click Install Now to begin the installation process.

Final Steps

After the installation is complete, restart your computer and remove the installation media. Boot into your new Ubuntu installation.

Tips:

Use GParted: If you are not comfortable with the built-in partitioning tool, you can use GParted available in the live session to manage partitions before installation. You can download it from the Ubuntu Software Center. Consider Disk Type: If you are using an SSD, consider using the ext4 file system with TRIM enabled for better performance. This will help manage the SSD's wear level and improve speed.

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully allocate space for Ubuntu during installation. If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to consult the official Ubuntu documentation or reach out to the Ubuntu community forums.