Can You Install Ubuntu on an External Hard Drive or USB Stick?

Yes, you can install Ubuntu on an external hard drive or USB stick, allowing you to boot it from any compatible computer without the need to install it on the internal hard drive. This portable installation method grants you the flexibility to use Ubuntu on multiple computers. Here's how to do it.

Requirements

To install Ubuntu on an external hard drive or USB stick, you will need the following:

External Hard Drive or USB Stick: Ensure it has sufficient storage space, with at least 8 GB recommended. Ubuntu ISO: Download the latest version of Ubuntu from the official website. Rufus or Etcher: Use software like Rufus for Windows or Etcher for cross-platform tasks to create a bootable USB drive.

Steps to Install Ubuntu on an External Drive

Create a Bootable USB Drive

Follow these steps to create a bootable USB drive:

Using Rufus Insert your USB stick. Open Rufus and select the USB device. Choose the Ubuntu ISO you downloaded. Select the partition scheme MBR for BIOS or UEFI GPT for UEFI. Click the Start button to begin the process. Using Etcher Open Etcher and select the Ubuntu ISO. Choose your external drive. Click the Erase button, then Flash! to create the bootable USB drive.

Boot from the External Drive

Follow these steps to boot from the external drive:

Insert the external hard drive or USB stick into the computer you want to boot from. Restart the computer and enter the boot menu (usually F2, F12, ESC, or DEL depending on the manufacturer). Select the external drive from the boot options.

Install Ubuntu

Once the Ubuntu live environment loads, choose the appropriate option:

Select “Try Ubuntu” if you want to test it first. Select “Install Ubuntu” if you are ready to proceed with the installation.

During the installation process, choose the external drive as the installation target, being careful not to select the internal hard drive. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Booting from the External Drive

After installation, you can boot from the external drive on any compatible computer by selecting it in the boot menu.

Considerations

Data Persistence

If using a USB stick, consider creating a persistent live USB if you want to save changes and files without needing to reinstall Ubuntu.

Compatibility

Ensure that the target computers support booting from USB or external drives.

Performance

Running Ubuntu from a USB stick may be slower than from an internal SSD. However, the use of a high-speed USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt interface can significantly improve performance.

This approach allows you to have a portable version of Ubuntu that can be used on various machines, providing flexibility and convenience.