I'm new to Linux and recently built a rig for running a local LLM. I want to use Linux as the OS, but I'm running into a ton of issues during installation. Here's my setup:
- AMD Ryzen 9 9950x 16-core CPU
- 2x 24GB NVIDIA RTX 3090 GPUs
- 4x 32GB Corsair Vengeance DDR5 RAM
- 1x 4TB Samsung 990 Pro SSD
- ASUS TUF Gaming x670e motherboard with Wi-Fi.
I've tried installing several distributions, including Ubuntu 24.04, Ubuntu 22.04, PopOS (both NVIDIA and non-NVIDIA versions), and Fedora Workstation 43. I've used at least five different USB sticks and updated the motherboard BIOS to ensure hardware is functioning as intended. However, installation attempts keep failing in various ways, and I'm getting different error messages each time. I've even removed one GPU to troubleshoot. I can get to a wonky installer GUI with some edits to the boot sequence, but it always fails for different reasons. I'm at my wit's end! Any troubleshooting advice would be greatly appreciated. Is my machine possessed?
4 Answers
When you get failures, what kind of error messages are popping up? It might be helpful to see specifics, like kernel panic messages. Also, not trying to install on your USB instead of the SSD would be a rookie mistake, but worth checking!
Kernel panic can happen for a variety of reasons, so let's troubleshoot those error messages in detail.
Have you verified your installation media after creating it? Errors can stem from a corrupted ISO or a faulty USB drive. I recommend using Rufus on Windows; it's worked for me before. Be sure to check the checksum for downloads too.
I had major issues too until I switched to Balena Etcher for creating the USB stick. It's been a lifesaver for me!
Validating checksums is key! With those errors you're mentioning, there might be something deeper going on hardware-wise.
I feel your pain! It sounds like you're dealing with some compatibility issues, particularly with that Ryzen chip and the X670E motherboard. Focus on Fedora Workstation 43; it usually has better support for newer hardware. When you try to install, can you let us know exactly which step fails—like is it during disk partitioning or the bootloader setup? Also, have you tried installing with just one RTX 3090 in the primary slot? It could simplify things.
Totally agree about sticking with Fedora! I have a similar setup and have had success with it. It's strange that you keep running into issues, but I'd recommend double-checking the error messages during installation for better insight.
I've been in a similar boat. After some trial and error, using just one RAM stick and rotating through them might help as well. And don't forget to disable secure boot in your BIOS!
Take a breather and don't stress too much! Every attempt counts. I know it’s frustrating, but getting specifics on the errors you face will help everyone to help you better. Sleeping on it might do you some good too, then come back ready to tackle it calmly.
Great advice! Documenting the issues can help show patterns in what’s going wrong.
Exactly! Sometimes a fresh mindset can make all the difference. Don't give up!
Definitely check that you're writing to the correct drive! Did you try pulling all but one GPU and see if that stabilizes the installation?