I'm new to Linux and trying to replace Windows. I switched the firmware to UEFI mode, set both the computer and USB to use GPT, formatted the USB as FAT32, and disabled fast boot. However, when I plug in the USB and restart the Lenovo computer to press F2 and begin the Linux installation, it freezes on the Lenovo logo screen. I'm not sure whether the USB was created correctly or if another firmware setting is causing the problem. What should I check?
3 Answers
First, verify exactly how the USB was created. Don’t just copy the Linux ISO file onto the drive; use the imaging method recommended by the distribution’s official installation guide. Some USB-writing tools or settings can produce media that won’t boot correctly. It’s better to follow the written distro instructions than rely on random video tutorials.
A correctly written installer may not appear as an ordinary FAT32 data drive. Depending on how it was imaged, the system can show an ISO9660 or other read-only filesystem. If the ISO was only copied onto the USB, recreate the installer using a proper disk-imaging tool.
Thank you—that was the issue. I had copied the ISO instead of properly writing it to the USB.
Try temporarily disabling Secure Boot in the UEFI settings, then test the USB again. The exact option name and location vary by Lenovo model, so check the firmware menu or the model’s manual.
Thanks, I’ll check the official instructions and recreate the USB properly.