In this article I want to share my experience in creating a bootable Linux USB/Pendrive. For those who are unaware of this concept, a bootable Linux USB is just like a bootable CD/DVD, but it can be with persistent or non-persistent storage. Lets first put in points why at all we need a bootable USB.

• Backup Operating System - Just in case if the Operating System on the Hard Disk crashes or becomes unworkable or if there is an issue with your Hard Disk, you can simply boot using the USB Linux and work with all the installed Softwares like Office Suite etc. So practically it serves as a backup operating system.
• Security - Linux is already renowned for its security. With USB Linux, you take your security wherever you go. You don't need to be worried for using Internet Banking or Credit Card on a untrusted PC. Simple boot via your USB Linux, and you are in your own trusted environment.
• Portability - And what can beat portability of a USB Pen Drive. a CD/DVD still requires some space, but a USB Drive can be snugged anywhere.
• Persistent Storage - With a USB Linux you have the option of creating persistent storage. A CD/DVD does not have this option.

Now lets get to the basics of how to create a USB Linux Pendrive. To create USB Linux, you need

• Pen Drive - Ideally a 8 GB or more drive should be used depending on the persistent storage you require.
• Source ISO or a DVD - Normally you need to have access to a source ISO image or the CD/DVD of the Operating System
• USB Writing/Creation Software - Some ISO's can easily be used just by using Linux's dd command, but for more options and customizations, you can use any one of the following tools.
  • UNetbootin - http://unetbootin.sourceforge.net. Available for Linux, Windows and MAC Platforms
  • Linux Live USB Creator - http://linuxliveusb.com. Availble for Windows Platform.

I shall now illustrate with the USD Linux Pendrive which I created using above mentioned tools. USB Linux Pendrive was made using - Linux Mint 13 ISO, UNetbootin, HP v220w 16 GB USB Drive

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Only downside of using USB Linux is that the Input/Output Speed is very slow. I was getting 6-7 Mega Bytes per send on my USB Drive. Also it takes some extra time to boot up. Other than that, its a fine proposition.

Thats it with this article. keep visiting this blog for more technology related stuff.

Kirti