How to Install Eeebuntu on Your Eee PC

Eeebuntu is Linux distribution based on Ubuntu that is specially configured and optimized for small-screen netbooks like the Asus Eee PC. You might want to install Eeebuntu to get a more powerful operating system than the one installed by default, to experiment with Linux, or maybe even just as a fun project! Lucky for us, installation of Eeebuntu is pretty simple and straightforward.

Step 1: Get everything you need. Since many netbooks don't have a CD drive, I think the best way to install Eeebuntu on your Eee PC or other netbook is via USB media, so make sure you have a USB key with at least 1GB storage capacity handy. Then, you need to download the Eeebuntu installation image from http://www.eeebuntu.org/. There are three available versions: Standard, Base, and NBR. The Standard Eeebuntu version looks like a traditional desktop operating system, and comes with lots of applications. The Base version is extremely minimal and is intended for power users that want a highly customized system, and the NBR version sports a custom interface for small screens. If in doubt, I recommend the Standard version of Eeebuntu. Finally, you need to download Unetbootin (http://unetbootin.sourceforge.net/), the application what will install Eeebuntu to your USB key.

Step 2: Prepare your USB media with Unetbootin. After you've downloaded and installed Unetbootin, launch it by finding in your operating system's application menu or by clicking the executable file. Select the "Disk Image" option (making sure that the dropdown menu remains on "ISO"), and click on the button labeled "..." to browse your file system and select the Eeebuntu image you downloaded earlier. Select your USB key from the dropdown list at the very bottom of the Unetbootin window, and then hit "OK." Unetbootin will now automatically prepare your USB media with Eeebuntu.

Step 3: Boot Eeebutu on your Eee PC or netbook. Insert your newly prepared USB key into your Eee PC, and reboot or startup. If you are installing to an Eee PC, simply hold down the Escape key as soon as the computer turns on or restarts, and then select your USB key from the list of options. If you're installing to a netbook other than the Eee PC, you may have to make adjustments in your BIOS to make sure you can boot from USB media. You should see the Eeebuntu splash screen appear, followed by the full Eeebuntu desktop.

Step 4: Test and install Eeebuntu. This "live" version of Eeebuntu is just for testing purposes (it hasn't actually installed yet). Feel free to to click around a bit and make sure everything works well on your hardware. Once you're satisfied, click on "Install" icon on the desktop to get started. Eeebuntu will guide you through the installation with a series of self-explanatory prompts. One part that may be confusing for you if you're new to Eeebuntu or Linux is the "Partitioning" screen. I recommend you simply accept the defaults and click "Next." That being said, be aware that this will erase all the data you currently have your Eee PC or netbook, completely replacing it with Eeebuntu! Make sure you have everything you need securely backed up!

Step 5: Enjoy Eeebuntu! After the installer has run its course, you'll have the option to remain in the "live" environment, or to reboot into your new operating system. Reboot, and enjoy a fully customized and optimized Ubuntu experience on your Eee PC or netbook with Eeebuntu.