Introduction
Welcome, intrepid Linux voyager! If you’ve ever wanted an operating system that combines the rock-solid stability of Ubuntu with a dash of Eastern flair, look no further than Ubuntu Kylin (formerly UbuntuKylin). Whether you’re a seasoned penguin tamer or a complete newbie tiptoeing into the penguin realm for the first time, this guide will walk you through every step—from downloading the ISO to sipping virtual tea in your new KDE-based (actually UKUI-based) desktop environment.
Grab your favorite beverage, summon your inner code warrior, and let’s get started!
Section 1: System Requirements
| Component | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | 2 GHz dual-core | 4-core 2.5 GHz |
| RAM | 4 GB | 8 GB |
| Storage | 25 GB free | 50 GB |
| Graphics | Integrated GPU | Dedicated GPU (for light gaming, animations) |
| USB Drive | 8 GB | 16 GB |
Tip: If your computer is older than your favorite childhood memory, Ubuntu Kylin will still likely work, but expect a leisurely startup—like waiting for a snail to learn breakdancing.
Section 2: Download the ISO
- Open your browser and head to the official site:
https://www.ubuntukylin.com. - Click Download and choose the latest Long Term Support (LTS) version. LTS releases are supported for five years—plenty of time to adopt new hobbies.
- Save the ISO file to a folder you’ll remember. (Hint: Avoid the “Downloads” abyss where files vanish forever.)
Section 3: Create a Bootable USB
The simplest way is with balenaEtcher, which works on Linux, Windows, and macOS:
- Download balenaEtcher from
https://www.balena.io/etcher. - Install and launch balenaEtcher.
- Select the Ubuntu Kylin ISO file, then your USB drive, then click Flash!
- Wait patiently while your USB is transformed into an OS-launching missile.
If you’re on Linux and prefer the terminal, try dd (with caution):
sudo dd if=~/Downloads/ubuntukylin.iso of=/dev/sdX bs=4M status=progress sync
Warning: Replacing /dev/sdX with the wrong drive letter can wipe out your vacation photos. Double-check!
Section 4: BIOS/UEFI Setup
- Reboot your machine and enter BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing F2, F10, Del, or similar at startup).
- Enable USB Boot or adjust the boot order to make your USB drive first.
- Save changes and exit your system should reboot from the USB stick.
Section 5: The Installation Process
5.1 Welcome Screen
Select your language, then click Install Ubuntu Kylin. Admire the friendly turtle mascot if it appears—its gentle encouragement is free.
5.2 Keyboard Layout
Choose your keyboard layout or let Ubuntu Kylin detect it automatically. If your keys feel upside down, you can always reconfigure later.
5.3 Updates and Third-Party Software
Check Download updates while installing to save time later. You can also include third-party codecs for multimedia playback—because who doesn’t love watching cat videos in high definition?
5.4 Partitioning
Choose one of the following:
- Erase disk and install: Wipes everything—be sure you’ve backed up that novel-in-progress.
- Something else: Manual partitioning for advanced users. Create at least:
/ (root)25 GBswapequal to your RAM if hibernation is desired/homethe rest for personal files (optional but recommended)
5.5 User Details
Enter your name, computer name, username, and a strong password. Do not use password123. Seriously, don’t.
5.6 Installation Progress
Relax to the installation slideshow. It might teach you about ancient Chinese calligraphy or showcase the beauty of Peking Opera. Installation typically takes 10–20 minutes, depending on your machine’s coffee consumption.
5.7 Finish and Reboot
When prompted, remove the USB drive and press Enter. Your new Ubuntu Kylin system will roar (silently) to life.
Section 6: Post-Installation Configuration
6.1 Update Upgrade
sudo apt update sudo apt upgrade -y
Your system is now up to date—no more surprise patch Thursdays!
6.2 Install Additional Software
- GIMP for image editing:
sudo apt install gimp - VLC for media:
sudo apt install vlc - Chrome (not in repos): download from
google.com/chrome
6.3 Ubuntu Kylin Special Features
- Kylin Software Center: A curated app store looks great and keeps things simple.
- MVoice: Voice assistant that can tell you the weather or argue about tea preferences.
- AI Calendar: Intelligent scheduling with Qingming Festival reminders—because culture matters.
Section 7: Customizing Your Desktop
Ubuntu Kylin uses UKUI, a lightweight, elegant desktop environment designed for familiarity:
- Right-click the desktop → Change Desktop Background → choose from serene landscapes or upload your own.
- Open Control Center to tweak themes, fonts, and window behaviors.
- Install new icon packs via
sudo add-apt-repository ppa:numix/ppa sudo apt update sudo apt install numix-icon-theme-circle.
Let your inner artist run wild—just don’t go overboard with glittery cursors (unless that’s your thing).
Section 8: Troubleshooting Common Issues
8.1 No Wi-Fi?
- Open Terminal run
lshw -C networkto identify your adapter. - Install missing drivers:
sudo apt install linux-firmwareor proprietary drivers from Software Updates → Additional Drivers.
8.2 Brightness Controls Broken
- Edit
/etc/default/grub, addacpi_backlight=vendortoGRUB_CMDLINE_LINUX_DEFAULT. - Run
sudo update-gruband reboot.
8.3 Sound Doesn’t Work
- Open alsamixer in Terminal and unmute channels (press M).
- If still silent, try
sudo apt install pavucontroland configure in PulseAudio Volume Control.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed Ubuntu Kylin and taken your first steps into a world where tradition meets technology. Your system is stable, visually appealing, and ready for daily tasks, coding marathons, or simply showing off to your friends:
“What’s that? Ubuntu Kylin? Oh, I know, it’s the deluxe version of Linux you didn’t even know you needed!”
Keep exploring the Kylin Software Center, customizing your desktop, and diving into the Linux ecosystem. Remember, every penguin journey begins with a single command:
sudo apt install curiosity (unofficial, but highly recommended).
Happy computing, and may your terminal always be bug-free!
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