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Clever USB-based software that helps install Linux onto personal computers

Clever USB-based software that helps install Linux onto personal computers

Vote: (70 votes)

Program license: Free

Developer: Pen Drive Linux

Version: 2.0.1.4a

Works under: Windows

Vote:

Program license

(70 votes)

Free

Developer

Version

Pen Drive Linux

2.0.1.4a

Works under:

Windows

Pros

  • Makes bootable Linux USB drives
  • Convenient tool for experimentation

Cons

  • Not compatible with all USB drives

Universal USB Installer creates Linux installations that you can launch from a pen drive.

One of the advantages Linux offers users is its sheer amount of options. A knowledgeable user can customize a distribution to fit his or her particular needs. It’s even possible to create an instance of Linux that you boot from, for instance, a USB flash drive. This gives you a Linux installation you can take with you or only boot into when you need that particular configuration.

This is where Universal USB Installer comes in to play. This is a program for Windows that lets you create Linux bootable USB flash drives. Have Windows as your primary OS and boot into Linux only when you need it. This is also a very convenient tool for experimentation since it makes it easy to make adjustments and then discard the results if you’re not pleased with them.

Universal USB Installer is easy to use. Select a supported Linux distribution. Point it to an ISO. Point it to the drive to make bootable. Select the Create button. That’s it. There’s also a few options, such as formatting the drive first, setting a persistent file size and exposing all available drives. Although easy to use, Universal USB Installer is not foolproof. It expects some user knowledge, and if you’re not careful, it’s possible to overwrite a drive accidently.

The installation process occurs over three stages and is relatively fast. As it installs, it displays a log that informs you of what’s transpiring and any errors that may be occurring if applicable. It’s worth noting that not all Linux distributions are supported. The program requires specific support for a distro, and while the developers do add support on a regular basis, if the distro you want isn’t supported at that time, you’re simply out of luck for the time being.

It’s also worth noting that there are some compatibility issues with USB flash drives. Some pen drives simply won’t work. If you’re buying a drive specifically for use with this program, you’ll want to identify the features Universal USB Installer requires and then research USB flash drives accordingly.

Pros

  • Makes bootable Linux USB drives
  • Convenient tool for experimentation

Cons

  • Not compatible with all USB drives