Linux Mint run from a USB HD?

Davemay44 · 07-07-2019, 06:57 PM

Kinda new! I have played around with a couple of programs.
Question, can most Linux editions run from a USB hard drive? My lap top doesn't have much space left and I would like to try a couple of OSS.
Hope my terminology is understandable.
Thanks

snowday · 07-08-2019, 11:53 AM

Welcome to the forums!

Yes, it is possible to run Linux from a USB hard drive.

You should be VERY CAREFUL that you do not accidentally install Linux (or the GRUB bootloader) to your laptop's hard drive. If there is any doubt in your mind, the safest thing to do is physically disconnect the internal drive, before installing Linux to the USB hard drive.

(And of course, you should always have backups!)

Which distribution ("distro") do you want to try first? I bet we can find specific instructions to get you started.

jefro · 07-08-2019, 03:55 PM

snowpine is quite correct that modern linux will run from a wide array of storage sources from usb attached flash/harddrive to optical discs and networked locations.

Since you are new, consider running a live cd/dvd maybe to start.

If you do decide to install heed the above warning. I usually remove the internal drive power when I attempt to install to a usb drive. I know I could do it without but even I sometimes can't read and just click.

Davemay44 · 07-13-2019, 09:46 PM

Thanks for all the reply!

I'm really enjoying this!