UNIT 3: The Setup
Before you can hack, you must build your lab. You have two paths to enter the Linux world.
1. Choose Your Method
Method A: Virtual Machine (VM)
Recommended for BeginnersWe install Linux inside a window on your current computer. It acts like a separate "ghost" computer.
- ✅ Safe (Can't break your PC)
- ✅ Easy to undo
- ❌ Slightly slower
Method B: Dual Boot
For Advanced UsersWe split your hard drive in half. When you turn on your PC, you choose: Windows OR Linux.
- ✅ Maximum Performance
- ❌ High Risk (Data loss)
- ❌ Harder to uninstall
2. System Requirements
To run a VM, your "Host" computer needs:
- RAM: 8GB minimum (You will give 4GB to Linux).
- Storage: 25GB free space.
- CPU: Virtualization (VT-x) enabled in BIOS.
3. The Hypervisor
To run a VM, you need software called a Hypervisor. It tricks Linux into thinking it has its own hardware.
- VirtualBox: Free, Open Source (Recommended).
- VMware Workstation: Faster, but proprietary.
4. The First Boot Experience
When you first load an Ubuntu ISO, you will see a "Live Environment."
This runs Linux entirely from RAM. You can test WiFi, Sound, and Screen resolution before you actually install it to the disk.
5. Directory Structure Overview
In Windows, you have C:\Users\Name. In Linux, everything starts at ROOT ( / ).
We will explore this map in detail in the next unit.
⚠️ The Insight
Use "Snapshots."
In VirtualBox, you can take a "Snapshot" before you run a dangerous command. If you destroy your Linux system, you can revert to the snapshot in 10 seconds. This is your superpower.