Step 1: Download The ISO

From the Debian download page, pick the 64-bit PC netinst ISO. It stays small and fetches up-to-date packages during install.

Note: Do not copy the ISO file directly onto your flash drive manually. Leave it in your Downloads folder and let Rufus handle writing it.

Step 2: Create Bootable USB In Rufus

Plug in your flash drive, open Rufus, and do two important things:

1. Select your flash drive under Device.
2. Click Select and choose the Debian ISO.

You generally do not need to change anything else. Hit Start and accept the format/erase prompts.

Warning: Make sure the correct USB device is selected before clicking Start, or you can wipe the wrong drive.

Step 3: Boot Into Installer

On Windows, open Settings → System → Recovery → Advanced startup to force a reboot that lets you boot from USB.

If your Dell keeps routing to SupportAssist instead of your installer, enter BIOS (usually F2) and set SupportAssist boot priority to 0, save, and reboot.

Once in the Debian installer, use the graphical install. It's straightforward and very similar to a Windows install flow.

Step 4: Installation Choices

During setup you'll select language, network, and desktop environment. I prefer GNOME, but KDE Plasma is a good Windows-like option.

For disk setup, if you're unsure, wiping the whole drive is the easiest path. I personally use LVM for extra flexibility/security, but pick what matches your risk tolerance.

When asked for final confirmation to format, choose Yes. When installation completes, unplug the USB before rebooting.

Step 5: Post-Install Setup Video

This is the same video workflow I use each time I install Debian so everything lands in a known-good state:

In Jay's guide, he suggests replacing Firefox ESR with flatpak Firefox. If you prefer, you can install flatpak Vivaldi instead. Same general process.

Useful Linux Apps

Either way, good job. You made it to the end. Have fun.