One of the most interesting advancements in the Linux world is the ability to run the entire operating system from an external device without needing to install it. This not only gives you the opportunity to experiment with the Linux distribution, but it also serves as an effective solution for a variety of situations.
What is a Linux Live USB?
What is a Linux Live USB?
A Linux Live USB is a USB device that contains a complete and functional version of the system, capable of running directly from the USB without installation. In other words, when you plug in the USB and configure your computer to boot from the USB device, you can use Linux as if it were installed on the hard drive, but without making any changes to it. This is especially useful because it allows you to use Linux on any computer that supports booting from USB.
You can try our Slimbook OS from here:
Slimbook OS 24
To install it on a USB, follow this tutorial:How to create a bootable USB from Windows (or any ISO) using Ventoy
What is a Linux Live USB used for?
1. Portability and the ability to test that curious distro without installing it
One of the most common uses of a Linux Live USB is to try a Linux distribution without needing to install it on your PC. This is perfect if you want to explore the distro before deciding to make a permanent installation. Most Linux distributions like Ubuntu, Fedora, or our Slimbook OS allow you to boot into "live" mode.
Portability is another advantage of a Live USB. You can take the operating system with you wherever you go and run it on almost any compatible computer.
2. Recovering damaged systems
A Linux Live USB is also an excellent system recovery tool. If your computer has suffered a failure and you can’t access your usual operating system (like Windows or macOS), you can use a Linux Live USB to boot the computer, access important files, and back them up. This is especially useful in situations where the main operating system is unusable.
Some distros, besides data recovery, also include diagnostic and disk management tools that are extremely useful for these tasks.
3. Privacy and security
When you run Linux from a Live USB, nothing is saved on the hard drive; everything runs in the RAM, and any changes are erased upon restarting the computer.
4. Installing Linux on your computer
Of course, if you decide you like what you see, you can install it directly onto the hard drive as your main operating system. The Live USB allows for a quick and easy installation process.
In Summary, it’s all advantages:
- You don’t need to install it on your hard drive, so there’s no risk of losing data or affecting your main operating system.
- You can take your operating system and files anywhere and use them on different computers (only in persistent mode).
- Recovery and repair: It helps access files and repair damaged operating systems.
- Privacy: You leave no traces, ensuring a higher level of security.
- Quick installation: If you decide to install Linux, the Live USB makes the process simple.
Conclusion
A Linux Live USB can be used as a versatile and powerful tool for repairing, recovering files from a damaged system, trying a new Linux distribution, or simply enhancing privacy. Having a Live USB is an excellent solution.Owning a Linux Live USB is a useful addition to your tech toolkit, allowing you to handle a variety of tasks effectively and easily.
