I need to install Ubuntu instead of Windows 7. Can you tell me the steps to do it? I don't want to install Ubuntu alongside Windows. Any precautions needed before installing Ubuntu? How do I install Ubuntu 11.10 without losing the current data in my laptop?
Ubuntu – How to replace Windows with Ubuntu, yet keep the data
system-installation
Best Answer
Since the process involves a lot of steps, I think it'd be better to provide a link.
So here you have it: How to Install Ubuntu 12.04 Precise Pangolin
If you've any other queries, don't hesitate to ask.
If you want to retain any data which is stored in C: drive, make a backup either on some other partition or on some external media.
If you install Ubuntu in the C: Drive (where the windows is installed) everything in the C: will be deleted. (C: contains all the contents of your Desktop, My Documents, Recycle Bin, and in most cases all your installed programs and files related to them).
On the other hand, if you choose any other partition, the contents of that partition would be deleted.
Since you want to remove Windows and install only Ubuntu, you'll have to choose C: while installing Ubuntu. There will be a window like below while installation and there'll be plenty of other options in your case and I guess you'll be able to choose to remove Windows and install Ubuntu.
If not, you'll have to manually select the partition containing Windows and install Ubuntu on it.