> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://da-home-studio.gitbook.io/elementary-os-user-handbook/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://da-home-studio.gitbook.io/elementary-os-user-handbook/get-started/install-elementary-os.md).
# Install elementary OS
In the beginning was the Image
This guide will walk you through the procedure of elementary OS installation, from downloading the ISO file to booting into the installed system.
## Prerequisites
System Requirements
While elementary OS does not have a strict set of minimum system requirements, the following specifications are at least recommended for the best experience:
* Recent Intel i3 or comparable dual-core 64-bit processor
* 4 GB of system memory (RAM)
* Solid state drive (SSD) with at least 32 GB of free space
* Internet access
* Built-in or wired mouse/touchpad and keyboard
* 1024×768 minimum resolution display
You will also need a spare USB flash drive with at least 4 GB of storage for installation.
{% hint style="warning" %}
**Installation on virtual machines is not recommended as they don't perform as well as a full install.**
If you are attempting to install in a virtual machine, enable EFI if possible but understand you may encounter other issues.
{% endhint %}
{% hint style="danger" %}
**Back Up Your Data**
Make sure to back up your important data to an external location such as a cloud service or an external hard drive. Installing a new operating system may overwrite your existing data.
{% endhint %}
## 1. Download elementary OS
Download the latest elementary OS version from the [official home page](https://elementary.io/). You will need to write the downloaded ISO file to a USB flash drive.
## 2. Verify Your Download
Verifying your download is highly recommended. Verification indicates whether the [checksum](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Checksum) of the downloaded ISO file matches the one generated for elementary OS image, and thus you can be sure that your downloaded ISO file is complete and not corrupted.
Select the operating system you are currently using to view tailored installation instructions below.
{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Windows" %}
Assuming you downloaded elementary OS to your Windows Downloads folder, open the Command Prompt in Windows and run the following command:
```bash
CertUtil -hashfile Downloads\elementaryos-7.1-stable.20230926rc.iso sha256
```
It should produce the output:
```bash
SHA256 hash of Downloads\elementaryos-7.1-stable.20230926rc.iso:
5c7f6b388e5787c366587985301ea05ab16e4cc0de3be2b3d6a559ce81a2f102
```
{% endtab %}
{% tab title="macOS" %}
Assuming you downloaded elementary OS to your macOS Downloads folder, open the Terminal app in macOS and run the following command:
```bash
shasum -a 256 ~/Downloads/elementaryos-7.1-stable.20230926rc.iso
```
It should produce the output:
```bash
5c7f6b388e5787c366587985301ea05ab16e4cc0de3be2b3d6a559ce81a2f102
```
{% endtab %}
{% tab title="Linux" %}
From the folder where you downloaded the ISO file, open your terminal and run:
```bash
sha256sum elementaryos-7.1-stable.20230926rc.iso
```
It should produce the output:
```bash
5c7f6b388e5787c366587985301ea05ab16e4cc0de3be2b3d6a559ce81a2f102
```
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}
If the checksum does not match, re-download your copy of elementary OS and ensure the download is complete before re-verifying it.
## 3. Create Install Drive
To create an elementary OS install drive, you need a USB flash drive that is at least 4 GB in capacity, and an app capable to [write the ISO image](/elementary-os-user-handbook/get-started/install-elementary-os/writing-iso-with-etcher.md). One of the recommended apps is [Etcher](https://etcher.balena.io/).
{% hint style="danger" %}
You cannot just copy the ISO image to the USB flash drive like a regular file via your file manager. A proper app is required for the task.
{% endhint %}
## 4. Boot from Install Drive
To start the installation process, boot your computer from the install drive.
1. Insert your install drive and restart the computer.
2. Right at the moment the computer starts, press **F12** on the keyboard to select your USB drive as the first boot device.
3. After you are presented with the elementary OS splash screen, follow the on-screen instructions which will guide you through the rest of the process.
{% hint style="info" %}
**Mind the following:**
* The key for changing the boot order may differ. Refer to your computer documentation to be sure.
* If you choose the wrong drive, your computer will likely continue to boot as usual. Just restart and pick a proper drive in the menu.
{% endhint %}
## 5. Complete Installation
To complete the installation, follow the on-screen guide. It's pretty clear and simple, and almost all you have to do is "select" and "go next".
1. Choose the language for the installer.
2. Select your preferred keyboard layout.
3. Proceed with one of the installation modes:
* [**Try Demo Mode**](#user-content-fn-1)[^1]
* [**Erase Disk and Install**](#user-content-fn-2)[^2]
* [**Custom Install**](#user-content-fn-3)[^3]
4. Wait for the installation is finished and click **Restart Device**.
5. Remove your USB drive when asked, and press **Enter** to reboot.
## 6. Perform Initial Settings
After rebooting, you need to perform some initial settings to start using elementary OS.
1. Set the system language.
2. Select the keyboard layout.
3. Create a user account. Fill out all the fields required, and click **Finish Setup**.
When you see the system [Greeter](/elementary-os-user-handbook/overview/desktop-tour/greeter.md) screen, enter your password to login.
## 7. Set up Some Features for a Start (optionally)
Upon the first login, you will be offered to quickly set up a few features, such as visual style, nightlight mode, online accounts, and so on.
You can set up these features right away, or skip them all. Do not worry, you can always configure the entire functionality in the [System Settings](/elementary-os-user-handbook/get-started/explore-system-settings.md).
All done. You have successfully installed elementary OS on your computer. Go on with the system settings, desktop customization, and using applications.
Enjoy! 😉
{% content-ref url="/pages/E6yddKRr9HJyWUnqTRL0" %}
[Installation Issues](/elementary-os-user-handbook/troubleshooting/installation-issues.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}
[^1]: Select if you want to have a look at the elementary OS without installing it on your device. You can always go on with installation in this mode by clicking the corresponding icon in the [Dock](/elementary-os-user-handbook/overview/desktop-tour/dock.md).
[^2]: Good for beginners. Mind that the installer erases everything on your drive, and automatically modifies partitions when installing the operating system.
[^3]: Recommended for advanced users who want to manage disk partitions in accordance with their needs. You will be suggested to use [GParted](/elementary-os-user-handbook/get-started/install-elementary-os/using-gparted.md) for disk partitioning.
