Ubuntu 22.04 LTS Complete Installation Guide for Beginners (Step-by-Step with Screenshots)

1. What Is Ubuntu 22.04? Key Features Explained

What Is Ubuntu?

Ubuntu is one of the most popular open-source Linux distributions that anyone can use for free. It is widely supported by users ranging from beginners to advanced professionals. Developed and maintained by Canonical, Ubuntu is known for its system stability and user-friendly interface.

Ubuntu is often recognized as the operating system that dispelled the notion that “Linux is difficult.” It has gained attention as a strong alternative to Windows and macOS. Despite being free, it offers excellent security and is frequently used for development purposes and for extending the life of older computers.

Key Features of Ubuntu 22.04 LTS

The official name of Ubuntu 22.04 is “Ubuntu 22.04 LTS (Long Term Support),” released in April 2022. The LTS version provides five years of official support, including security updates and bug fixes.

Main Features:

• Adoption of GNOME 42
  The desktop environment uses GNOME 42, offering a more modern and refined user interface. Enhancements include improved dark mode support and upgraded screenshot tools.
• Wayland as the Default Session
  The display server has shifted from X.org to Wayland, improving security and rendering smoothness. Users can still switch back to X.org for compatibility with older applications.
• Linux Kernel 5.15 Included
  This kernel version improves compatibility with modern hardware and enhances overall performance, particularly in file system efficiency and power management.
• Enhanced Snap Package Support
  Snap has become the standard application distribution format, making software updates safer and easier. Firefox being delivered as a Snap package was a major highlight.
• Improved Japanese Language Support
  When Japanese is selected during installation, IME and fonts are configured smoothly from the start, making the setup process easier than ever.

Why Choose Ubuntu 22.04?

Ubuntu 22.04 is especially recommended for the following users:

• Linux beginners
  High stability and abundant documentation keep the learning curve low.
• Professionals and developers
  The long-term support of the LTS version makes it ideal for business and development environments that require reliability.
• Users who want to reuse older PCs
  Ubuntu is lightweight and often runs faster than Windows on aging hardware.

In upcoming articles, we will walk through the actual installation process of Ubuntu 22.04 step by step, explaining everything clearly for beginners.

2. Preparation Before Installation (With Diagrams)

To install Ubuntu 22.04 smoothly, some preparation is required in advance. This section explains system requirements, necessary items, and important precautions. Take your time with this step to avoid unnecessary issues.

System Requirements and Recommended Specifications

Ubuntu 22.04 is relatively lightweight, but certain specifications are needed for comfortable use. Below are the official minimum requirements and the recommended specifications suggested by the author.

Both laptops and desktops are supported. While older machines can run Ubuntu, using an SSD and at least 8GB of RAM is recommended for a smoother experience.

What You Need to Prepare

Before installing Ubuntu, make sure you have the following items ready:

• An empty USB flash drive (8GB or larger)
  Required to create the Ubuntu installer.
• Internet connection
  Needed to download the ISO file and apply updates after installation. Wi-Fi is acceptable, but a wired connection is more stable.
• Another PC or smartphone
  Useful for searching support information if questions arise during installation.
• Backup media (optional but strongly recommended)
  If you plan to dual-boot or preserve existing data, create backups in advance.

Choose the Installation Method

There are several ways to install Ubuntu. Understanding the differences will help you choose the best option.

This article mainly focuses on installing Ubuntu on physical hardware, either as a single OS or in a dual-boot setup.

The Importance of Backups

Especially when performing dual-boot or overwrite installations, there is a risk of data loss. Be sure to back up the following items to an external drive or cloud storage:

• Family photos and videos
• Work documents and presentation files
• Browser bookmarks and saved passwords

Ubuntu installation is generally stable, but having backups ensures peace of mind in case of unexpected issues.

3. How to Download Ubuntu 22.04

To install Ubuntu 22.04, you first need to download the installation ISO file. This section explains how to obtain it from the official site, introduces the Japanese Remix version, and highlights important precautions.

Downloading the ISO File from the Official Website

The official Ubuntu website allows anyone to download the latest version for free. Follow the steps below:

Download Steps:

1. Visit the official page below:
   ▶ https://releases.ubuntu.com/jammy/
2. On the page, find “Ubuntu 22.04 LTS (Jammy Jellyfish)” and click the “Download” button.
3. The ISO file download will start automatically. The file size is approximately 3.5GB, so it may take several minutes depending on your connection.

Important Notes:

• Check the file name: It should be in the format “ubuntu-22.04.xxx-desktop-amd64.iso.” Avoid downloading older versions or the server edition by mistake.
• Verify file integrity (optional): For extra safety, you can verify the ISO file using the SHA256 checksum.

Japanese Remix Version: Overview and Download

If you want to use Ubuntu comfortably in Japanese, the “Ubuntu Japanese Remix” is highly recommended. This is a community-maintained version optimized for Japanese users.

Key Features:

• Japanese UI and Japanese input (Mozc) available immediately after installation
• Japanese fonts and timezone settings are preconfigured for a smoother setup

Download Steps:

1. Visit the following official site:
   ▶ https://www.ubuntulinux.jp/download/ja-remix
2. Locate “Ubuntu 22.04 LTS Japanese Remix” and download the corresponding ISO file.
3. Optionally verify the downloaded file using the provided checksum information.

Who Should Choose the Japanese Remix?

• Beginners who are unsure about Japanese input or locale settings
• Users who want minimal setup effort
• Those who care about Japanese font quality and printing support

Which One Should You Choose?

For beginners or users who want a smooth Japanese experience, the Japanese Remix is strongly recommended. If you prefer full customization, the official ISO is the better choice.

4. How to Create a Bootable USB (Windows / macOS)

After downloading the Ubuntu 22.04 ISO file, the next step is to create a “bootable USB” that will be used for installation. This USB allows your computer to start the Ubuntu installer. Below are clear instructions for both Windows and macOS environments.

Creating a Bootable USB on Windows (Using Rufus)

On Windows, Rufus is one of the most popular and reliable tools. Even beginners can easily create a bootable USB with it.

What You Need:

• An empty USB flash drive (8GB or larger)
• The downloaded Ubuntu 22.04 ISO file
• The latest official version of Rufus

Steps:

1. Visit the official Rufus website and download the latest version. Installation is not required.
2. Insert the USB flash drive into your PC and launch Rufus.
3. Select your USB drive under “Device.”
4. Under “Boot selection,” choose “Disk or ISO image,” then click “Select” and specify the Ubuntu ISO file.
5. Set “Partition scheme” to GPT and “Target system” to UEFI (non-CSM) (this is suitable for most modern PCs).
6. Click “Start.” When a warning appears, click “OK” to begin writing.
7. The process will take a few minutes. Once “Ready” appears, close Rufus and safely remove the USB drive.

Creating a Bootable USB on macOS (Using balenaEtcher)

On macOS, balenaEtcher is highly recommended. It provides a simple GUI and is beginner-friendly.

What You Need:

• An empty USB flash drive (8GB or larger)
• The downloaded Ubuntu 22.04 ISO file
• balenaEtcher application (free)

Steps:

1. Download balenaEtcher for macOS from the official website and install it.
2. Insert the USB flash drive into your Mac and launch Etcher.
3. Click “Flash from file” and select the Ubuntu ISO file.
4. Click “Select target” and choose your USB flash drive.
5. Click “Flash!” to start writing the image.
6. After writing, Etcher will automatically verify the data. When “Success!” appears, the process is complete.

Important Notes During USB Creation

• All data on the USB drive will be erased: Back up any important files beforehand.
• Always safely eject the USB drive: Do not remove it immediately after writing.
• Avoid unstable or old USB drives: Low-quality USB drives can cause write errors.

5. Ubuntu 22.04 Installation Guide (Step-by-Step with Screenshots)

Once the bootable USB is ready, you can proceed with installing Ubuntu 22.04. This section explains each step in detail so that even first-time users can follow without confusion.

Check and Configure BIOS / UEFI Settings

To boot from the USB drive, you must enable USB booting in your PC’s BIOS or UEFI settings.

Main Steps:

1. Immediately after powering on the PC, repeatedly press DEL, F2, F12, or ESC to enter the BIOS/UEFI screen (key varies by manufacturer).
2. Open the “Boot” menu and set the USB drive as the highest priority.
3. If Secure Boot is enabled, disabling it often helps avoid issues.
4. Save the settings and reboot (Save & Exit).

Booting Ubuntu from the USB Drive

After rebooting with the USB drive inserted, the Ubuntu installation menu will appear automatically.

Typical Menu Options:

• Try Ubuntu without installing
• Install Ubuntu

Select Install Ubuntu to launch the installer.

Explanation of Each Installer Step

The installer uses a graphical interface and proceeds as follows:

1. Language Selection

Selecting “Japanese” will display both the installer and the installed OS in Japanese.

2. Keyboard Layout

If you use a Japanese keyboard, choose “Japanese” and confirm it using the input test.

3. Updates and Other Software

You will see the following options:

• Normal installation (recommended)
• Minimal installation (lighter, fewer apps)
• “Download updates while installing Ubuntu” → Recommended
• “Install third-party software for graphics and Wi-Fi hardware” → Recommended

4. Installation Type

For beginners, “Dual boot” or “Erase disk and install Ubuntu” is recommended.

5. Partition Review and Adjustment (If Needed)

• The installer usually suggests an appropriate layout automatically.
• Advanced users may separate the root (/), swap, and home (/home) partitions.

6. User Information

• Your name
• Computer name
• Username
• Password (8 characters or more recommended)

You can also choose whether to enable automatic login.

Completing the Installation and Rebooting

After all settings are completed, Ubuntu installation begins. Depending on your system, it usually takes about 10–20 minutes.

When finished, click “Restart Now.”

Final Notes:

• Remove the USB drive when prompted, or after the system shuts down.
• If the system restarts normally, the Ubuntu 22.04 login screen will appear, indicating a successful installation.

6. Initial Setup and Japanese Localization

After completing the installation of Ubuntu 22.04, it is time to perform the initial setup to ensure a comfortable working environment. This section explains system updates, enabling Japanese input, timezone configuration, and font settings—essential steps for daily use.

Updating the System

Immediately after installation, Ubuntu may not yet have the latest updates applied. Start by bringing the system up to date.

Steps:

1. Open “Software Updater” from the Applications menu.
2. If updates are available, click “Install Now.”
3. Enter your password and reboot the system after the update completes.

Alternatively, you can update the system using the terminal:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade -y

If you are not comfortable with command-line operations, using the GUI update manager is perfectly fine.

Setting Up Japanese Input (Mozc)

To use Ubuntu in Japanese, you need to configure a Japanese Input Method Editor (IME). Ubuntu 22.04 typically uses Fcitx5 + Mozc.

Steps to Enable Japanese Input:

1. Open “Settings” and go to “Region & Language.”
2. Confirm that “Japanese” is selected under the language settings.
3. Add “Japanese (Mozc)” under “Input Sources.”

• Click the “+” button → Select “Japanese” → Choose “Japanese (Mozc).”

1. You can switch input modes using Hankaku/Zenkaku or Ctrl + Space.

If Japanese input does not work properly, try reinstalling Fcitx5 and Mozc using the following command:

sudo apt install fcitx5 fcitx5-mozc

To Apply the Settings:

• Log out and log back in
• Or reboot the system

After this, Japanese input should work smoothly in text editors and web browsers.

Timezone and Clock Settings

If the timezone is not set correctly, the system clock may display incorrect times.

Steps:

1. Open “Settings” → “Date & Time.”
2. Ensure “Automatic Date & Time” and “Automatic Time Zone” are enabled.
3. If disabled, manually select “Asia / Tokyo.”

In dual-boot environments, time discrepancies with Windows may occur. Solutions for this issue will be covered in a separate article.

Japanese Font Configuration (Optional)

Japanese text is readable by default, but customizing fonts can improve readability and aesthetics.

Popular Japanese Fonts:

• Noto Sans CJK JP (provided by Google, highly readable)
• Source Han Sans (by Adobe)
• IPA Fonts (commonly used in business environments)

Example installation command:

sudo apt install fonts-noto-cjk

To change system fonts, install “GNOME Tweaks” and adjust the settings there.

Other Recommended Initial Settings

• Switching the software mirror to a Japan-based server can significantly improve download and update speeds.
• Removing unnecessary applications (such as preinstalled launchers) can improve system performance.
• Adjusting screen lock and power management is especially important for laptop users.

7. Installing Recommended Additional Software

After installing Ubuntu 22.04 and completing the initial setup, the next step is to install software that improves usability and productivity. This section introduces practical applications suitable for beginners, along with both GUI-based and terminal-based installation methods.

Using Ubuntu Software (Software Center)

Ubuntu includes an application store called “Ubuntu Software,” similar to the Microsoft Store on Windows. It allows you to easily install and remove applications.

How to Open and Use Ubuntu Software:

1. Open “Ubuntu Software” from the Applications menu.
2. Browse apps by category or use the search box.
3. Select an application and click “Install.”

Because it is GUI-based, even users unfamiliar with the terminal can use it safely.

Recommended Applications for Beginners

The following applications are widely used and highly recommended for everyday use on Ubuntu.

Web Browsers

• Google Chrome
  Download site: https://www.google.co.jp/chrome/
  The .deb package can be installed by double-clicking after download.
• Firefox (Preinstalled)
  Provided as a Snap package by default. Advanced users may switch to the APT version for faster startup.

Development and Productivity Tools

• Visual Studio Code (VS Code)
  Ideal for programming and text editing.

sudo snap install code --classic

• GIMP (Image editing software)
  A popular alternative to Photoshop.

sudo apt install gimp

• LibreOffice (Office suite)
  Useful for documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. Often preinstalled, but you can install the latest version:

sudo apt install libreoffice

Utilities and Convenience Tools

• GNOME Tweaks (Customization tool)

sudo apt install gnome-tweaks

• Japanese dictionary enhancements (for Mozc input)

sudo apt install ibus-mozc

• Flameshot (Screenshot tool)
  A powerful screenshot tool with annotation features.

sudo apt install flameshot

Differences Between Snap and APT

Ubuntu primarily supports two application installation methods: APT (traditional Debian-based packages) and Snap (a newer containerized format).

For beginners, APT is usually sufficient. If you prefer always using the latest version or want fewer dependency issues, Snap is also a valid option.

How to Uninstall Software (GUI / Terminal)

Uninstalling via GUI:

Open Ubuntu Software, go to the “Installed” tab, and click “Remove” for the desired application.

Uninstalling via Terminal:

sudo apt remove gimp
sudo snap remove code

Keeping your system clean by removing unused software can improve overall performance.

8. Common Issues and Solutions (FAQ)

Ubuntu 22.04 is a very stable operating system, but first-time users may still encounter questions or unexpected issues. This section provides clear answers to common problems in a FAQ format.

Q1. Ubuntu Does Not Boot from the USB Drive

Possible Causes and Solutions:

• The USB drive was not created correctly
  Recreate the bootable USB using Rufus or balenaEtcher. The ISO file itself may be corrupted, so re-downloading it can help.
• Incorrect BIOS / UEFI settings
  Check whether Secure Boot is enabled, confirm that USB boot is allowed, and verify the UEFI/Legacy boot mode.
• USB port compatibility issues
  Some PCs cannot boot from front-panel USB ports. Try a rear USB port directly connected to the motherboard.

Q2. Errors Such as “grub install failed” Occur During Installation

Possible Causes and Solutions:

This error indicates a failure when installing the GRUB bootloader.

• Incorrect partition configuration in dual-boot setups
  The EFI partition may not be properly assigned. This is a common issue when installing alongside another OS.
• Restart the installer and use manual partitioning
  Assign the existing EFI partition to the mount point /boot/efi. This often resolves the issue.
• Disk permission or initialization issues
  In some cases, reinitializing the disk may be required. Always back up important data before proceeding.

Q3. After Installation, Only Windows Boots (Dual Boot Issue)

Possible Causes and Solutions:

• GRUB menu does not appear
  This often happens if Windows is installed in UEFI mode and Ubuntu was installed in Legacy (BIOS) mode.
• Set Ubuntu as the primary boot option in BIOS
  Look for entries such as “ubuntu” or “UEFI: ubuntu” and move them to the top of the boot order.
• Windows Fast Startup is enabled
  Disable Fast Startup in Windows power settings, as it can interfere with dual-boot configurations.

Q4. Wi-Fi Does Not Work or Network Is Unstable

Possible Causes and Solutions:

• Missing drivers
  Install the appropriate drivers using the following command:

sudo ubuntu-drivers autoinstall

• Temporarily use a wired connection
  Once connected, system updates may automatically install the required drivers.
• Broadcom wireless chipsets
  The following package may resolve the issue:

sudo apt install bcmwl-kernel-source

Q5. Japanese Input Does Not Work or Mozc Is Not Functioning

Possible Causes and Solutions:

• Fcitx5 is not running correctly
  Check that Fcitx5 is selected as the input method in system settings.
• Mozc is not installed
  Install it using the following command:

sudo apt install fcitx5-mozc

• Log out or reboot after configuration
  Input method changes often require a session restart to take effect.

Q6. System Feels Unstable or Freezes Occasionally

Possible Causes and Solutions:

• Insufficient system resources
  Systems with 4GB of RAM or less may struggle when multiple applications are open.
• Consider a lightweight desktop environment
  If GNOME feels heavy, alternatives such as Xubuntu (Xfce) or Lubuntu are worth considering.

9. Recommended Additional Settings & Applications

Ubuntu 22.04 works well immediately after installation, but adding a few extra settings and applications can significantly improve comfort, performance, and security. This section introduces practical enhancements suitable even for beginners.

Switching Software Mirrors to a Local Server

Ubuntu downloads software from mirror servers worldwide. Switching to a local mirror can greatly improve download and update speeds.

Steps:

1. Open “Software & Updates.”
2. Change “Download from” to “Other.”
3. Select a local mirror (for example, a nearby country or region).
4. Reload package information.

This setting often results in noticeably faster updates.

Installing GNOME Tweaks

GNOME Tweaks allows deeper customization of the Ubuntu desktop environment.

Installation:

sudo apt install gnome-tweaks

What You Can Customize:

• System fonts and font sizes
• Animation effects on/off
• Window title bar button placement
• Managing GNOME extensions

Recommended GNOME Extensions

GNOME extensions further enhance usability when combined with GNOME Tweaks.

• Dash to Dock
  Fixes the application dock to the screen edge, similar to macOS.
• User Themes
  Allows applying custom GTK themes.
• Clipboard Indicator
  Manages clipboard history for improved productivity.

Using extensions requires installing the GNOME Shell Extensions package and enabling browser integration.

Security-Related Settings

Automatic Screen Lock:

• Open “Settings” → “Privacy” → “Screen Lock.”
• Enable automatic locking after inactivity.
• Require a password on wake.

Enable Firewall (UFW):

Ubuntu includes a built-in firewall called UFW.

sudo ufw enable

Check firewall status:

sudo ufw status

Battery and Power Optimization (For Laptops)

Laptop users can improve battery life by enabling power optimization tools.

Installing TLP:

sudo apt install tlp
sudo systemctl enable tlp

TLP automatically optimizes power consumption without additional configuration.

Additional Useful Applications

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ Summary)

This section summarizes the most common questions users have when installing and configuring Ubuntu 22.04. Use it as a quick reference or final checklist.

Q1. Where can I download the Ubuntu 22.04 ISO file?

You can download it from the official Ubuntu website (https://releases.ubuntu.com/jammy/) or from the Japanese Remix site (https://www.ubuntulinux.jp/download/ja-remix).

Q2. I cannot boot from the USB drive. What should I do?

Check BIOS/UEFI settings to ensure USB boot is enabled and Secure Boot is disabled. Recreate the USB using Rufus or balenaEtcher if necessary.

Q3. How can I dual boot Ubuntu with Windows?

Select “Install Ubuntu alongside Windows” during installation. Ubuntu will automatically configure the system to allow both operating systems to coexist.

Q4. Japanese input does not work. How can I fix it?

Ensure Mozc is installed and Fcitx5 is selected as the input method. If needed, reinstall using:

sudo apt install fcitx5 fcitx5-mozc

Log out or reboot afterward.

Q5. Can Ubuntu 22.04 run on older computers?

Yes, it can run on systems meeting the minimum requirements, but 8GB RAM and an SSD are recommended for smooth performance. Lightweight flavors like Xubuntu or Lubuntu are alternatives.

Q6. Can I try Ubuntu without installing it?

Yes. Choose “Try Ubuntu without installing” when booting from the USB drive. Note that data will not be saved after shutdown.

Q7. Can I uninstall Ubuntu and return to Windows?

In dual-boot setups, Ubuntu can be removed by restoring Windows boot settings and deleting Ubuntu partitions. Single-OS installations require reinstalling Windows.

Q8. Is Ubuntu really free, even for commercial use?

Yes. Ubuntu is completely free for both personal and commercial use and is distributed under open-source licenses such as GPL and Apache.