How to Install Debian Step-by-Step?

Learn how to install Debian step-by-step with this comprehensive guide. Follow the instructions to set up Debian on your system hassle-free.

Debian Jul 7, 2024 0 493 Add to Reading List

Installing Debian involves several steps, including preparing your installation media, configuring your system, and completing the installation process. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare Installation Media

Download Debian ISO:
- Visit the Debian website and download the appropriate ISO file for your system (e.g., Debian 12.x "Bookworm").
Create Bootable USB Drive:
- Use a tool like Rufus (Windows), balenaEtcher (Windows/Mac/Linux), or the dd command (Linux) to create a bootable USB drive with the downloaded ISO file.

2. Boot from Installation Media

Insert the USB Drive:
- Insert the bootable USB drive into your computer.
Restart Your Computer:
- Reboot your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing a key like F2, F12, Esc, or Del during startup).
Set Boot Order:
- Change the boot order to boot from the USB drive.
Save and Exit:
- Save your changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI settings.

3. Start the Installation

Select Install Option:
- When the Debian installer menu appears, select Install or Graphical Install.
Select Language:
- Choose your preferred language.
Select Location:
- Choose your country or region.
Configure Keyboard:
- Select your keyboard layout.

4. Configure Network

Hostname:
- Enter a hostname for your system (e.g., debian).
Domain Name:
- If you are part of a domain, enter the domain name; otherwise, you can leave it blank.
Network Configuration:
- Configure your network settings (usually DHCP will auto-configure).

5. Set Up Users and Passwords

Root Password:
- Enter a strong password for the root user.
Create a User:
- Enter the full name and username for a new user account.
User Password:
- Enter a strong password for the new user account.

6. Partition Disks

Partitioning Method:
- Choose a partitioning method (Guided - use entire disk is the easiest).
Select Disk:
- Select the disk to partition.
Partition Scheme:
- Choose a partition scheme (All files in one partition is the simplest).
Write Changes:
- Confirm to write changes to the disk.

7. Install Base System

Base System Installation:
- The installer will install the base system. This process may take some time.

8. Configure Package Manager

Scan Another CD/DVD:
- If you have additional CDs/DVDs, you can scan them; otherwise, select No.
Debian Archive Mirror:
- Select a Debian archive mirror country and server.
HTTP Proxy:
- If you use a proxy, enter the proxy information; otherwise, leave it blank.

9. Install Software

Popularity Contest:
- Choose whether to participate in the package usage survey.
Software Selection:
- Select the software you want to install (e.g., Debian desktop environment, web server, SSH server, etc.).

10. Install GRUB Boot Loader

Install GRUB:
- Choose Yes to install the GRUB boot loader.
Select Device:
- Choose the device to install the boot loader (usually the primary disk).

11. Finish Installation

Complete Installation:
- Once the installation is complete, select Continue to reboot the system.
Remove Installation Media:
- Remove the USB drive when prompted.