Erase All Partitions and Install Only Ubuntu: A Comprehensive Guide

Is it possible to erase all partitions on your hard drive, including the EFI partition, and install only Ubuntu? Yes, it is. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to perform such an operation on your system.

Backup Your Data

Step 1: Backup Your Data

Before proceeding, it is crucial to back up any important data. This process will permanently delete everything on the drive. Make sure to transfer files to an external drive or cloud service to avoid losing important information.

Create a Bootable Ubuntu USB Drive

Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive

Download the Latest Ubuntu ISO from the official website.

Use a tool such as Rufus for Windows, Etcher for Windows, Mac, or Linux, or the dd command in Linux to create a bootable USB drive. Ensure the USB drive you choose is FAT32 formatted if using Etcher.

Boot from the USB Drive

Step 3: Boot from the USB Drive

Insert the USB drive into your computer and restart it.

Access the boot menu by pressing F2, F10, F12, or Esc (depending on your system). Select the USB drive to boot from.

Start the Installation Process

Step 4: Start the Installation Process

Once the Ubuntu installer loads, select ldquo;Try Ubunturdquo; or ldquo;Install Ubunturdquo;.

Choose Installation Type

Step 5: Choose Installation Type

When you reach the installation type screen, select ldquo;Erase disk and install Ubunturdquo;. This option will delete all existing partitions, including the EFI partition and will create new ones for Ubuntu.

Follow the Prompts

Step 6: Follow the Prompts

Continue through the installation prompts, setting your time zone, keyboard layout, user account, etc.

Complete Installation

Step 7: Complete Installation

Once the installation is finished, reboot your computer. Make sure to remove the USB drive when prompted.

Important Notes

UEFI vs. Legacy BIOS

If your system uses UEFI, the installer will automatically create a new EFI partition for Ubuntu. If you erase the EFI partition, you will still be able to boot into Ubuntu after installation. However, ensure you do not accidentally remove the EFI partition if UEFI is required for your system.

Data Loss

This process will permanently delete all data on your drive, including other operating systems. Be absolutely sure that you do not have any data that might be of use. Confirm that you are prepared to proceed before confirming the installation.

Note: The installation has an option to erase and use the entire disk. If you prefer to use this option, make sure you have no data that might be of use on the disk before attempting it. Always ensure you have a backup before proceeding.