Pro Tip: Test Your Hardware Before Installing Ubuntu
Try Before You Install
One of the most powerful features of the Ubuntu installer is the ability to run a full, live version of the desktop directly from the USB drive without making any changes to your computer. This allows you to perform some important pre-installation checks to ensure all of your hardware works correctly before you commit to installing.
How to Start
When you boot from the USB drive and reach the welcome screen, simply select the “Try Ubuntu” option. This will load the full Ubuntu desktop from the USB drive, though performance may be slower than a full installation.
Essential Pre-Checks
- Test Network Connectivity: The most important first check is for internet access. Connect to your wired or Wi-Fi network. Once connected, open the Firefox web browser and try to visit a website. If it works, you know your network drivers are in good shape.
- Verify USB and PCI Devices: If you want to dig deeper, you can use the terminal to see a detailed list of all the hardware Ubuntu has detected. This is useful for troubleshooting devices like webcams, sound cards, or graphics cards.
- To list all connected USB devices, open the Terminal and run the command:
lsusb -vvv. - To list all internal PCI devices (like network cards and sound cards), run the command:
lspci -vvv.
- To list all connected USB devices, open the Terminal and run the command:
By running these checks, you can identify potential driver issues and search for solutions online before altering your hard drive.
This post is based from content of the book Ubuntu System adminstration guide. And the book can be found here https://www.amazon.com/stores/Mattias-Hemmingsson/author/B0FF5CQX13