I had such a very bad day today, trying to install Linux on my new laptop.

First, it's very annoying trying to start Linux from my USB flash drive. No matter what I do, it always starts with Windows 8. I even have trouble getting into BIOS setup as Windows 8 automatically loads itself.

Googling about it, I found a way to boot from my USB flash drive.

I have successfully booted and installed Ubuntu 13.10 from my USB flash drive. First thing I've done after successful install is to update Ubuntu. After the updated, restarted laptop, got into login, then got stuck on black screen with only my mouse pointer.

Restarted again, got into login prompt, then stuck again with a black screen with my mouse pointer.

This time, I tried installing Linux Mint 16 from the same USB flash drive. It was not successful. LM installation crashed before it finished installing. Tried it twice and still it crashed during installation.

Now, I'm back to Windows 8.

You aren't starving, your children aren't starving or being slaughtered, so get on with life.

1 members found this post helpful.

If this is a windows 8 laptop then likely you are fighting secureboot and uefi.

here is a kitten:

http://i.imgur.com/PHgbXXc.gif

I do not think so, OP stated it booted.

@Emerson and szboardstretcher
Ubuntu booted up and installed successfully. It just won't get to Unity desktop after an update.
Linux Mint crashed during install.

It's not an issue with secureboot or uefi.

@sgosnell
Nice try.

Firstly, have you searched the internet for posts about Linux and your computer model? You may find someone with the same problem and a solution.

Secondly, if there's a problem (and it sounds like graphics) with both Mint and Ubuntu. it might be an idea to try an unrelated distro.

Meanwhile, have a look at this
http://xkcd.com/456/

Watch Me. Or

Watch Me.

or Me

I recently installed Linux Mint v17 via usb flash. I used a program to make stick bootable under Linux and then copied the iso directly. Booted up fine and installed with no problem on my laptop. Computer is a Toshiba Satellite A135 series

Removed. Old thread restarted in error by someone and I didn't notice-

This is not constructive nor necessary to post in this manner to a fellow LQ member. Please re-read LQ Rules to hopefully help you to keep from posting in this style.

Really? You're chiding me now over a post more than a year old?

LQ is a moderated forum and when something that is in error that is noticed, time is not relevant. As moderators we try to review as much as humanly possible. You were wrong and is has been noted to you, be it a year or one day. Rule violation has been noted, not chiding since you did agree at the start to abide by LQ rules for this moderated forum.

Please consider re-reading LQ Rules so you can remain within that regulation.