Downgrading your Ubuntu system from 22.04 to 20.04 can sound daunting, but it’s a straightforward process. In essence, you’ll be performing a fresh installation of Ubuntu 20.04, meaning you’ll need to backup your data, create a bootable USB drive, boot from the USB, and install the older version. After reading this brief overview, you should have a good idea of the necessary steps to downgrade your Ubuntu system.
Step by Step Tutorial: Downgrading Ubuntu from 22.04 to 20.04
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s clarify what we’re about to do. This tutorial will guide you through creating a bootable USB drive with Ubuntu 20.04 and using it to replace your current Ubuntu 22.04 system. Remember, this process will erase your existing data, so backup first!
Step 1: Backup your data
You must backup your important files, as downgrading will erase everything on your hard drive.
Before proceeding with the downgrade, take the time to backup any important documents, photos, or other data you cannot afford to lose. You can use an external hard drive, cloud storage, or any other backup method you prefer.
Step 2: Create a bootable USB drive with Ubuntu 20.04
Download the Ubuntu 20.04 ISO file and use a tool like Rufus or balenaEtcher to create a bootable USB drive.
Once you have the ISO file, use a USB flash drive with at least 4GB capacity. The bootable USB creation process is relatively simple and there are many free tools online that can guide you through it.
Step 3: Boot from the USB drive
Restart your computer and boot from the USB drive. You may need to enter your BIOS settings to change the boot order.
Different computers have different ways to access BIOS settings, so you might need to look up instructions specific to your computer model. Typically, pressing keys like F2, F12, Del, or Esc during startup will get you into BIOS.
Step 4: Install Ubuntu 20.04
Follow the on-screen instructions to install Ubuntu 20.04. You’ll have to choose between erasing the disk or something else; select ‘Erase disk and install Ubuntu’.
The installation process is mostly automated. Just follow the prompts to select your preferred language, keyboard layout, and timezone. When you get to the partitioning section, choose to erase the disk, which will remove Ubuntu 22.04 and install Ubuntu 20.04.
After completing these steps, your system will be running Ubuntu 20.04, and you can restore your backed-up data.
What happens after you complete the downgrade
Once the installation is complete, your computer will restart, and you should see the Ubuntu 20.04 login screen. You can now restore your data and reinstall any applications you need.
Tips for Downgrading Ubuntu from 22.04 to 20.04
- Always backup your data before starting the downgrade process to prevent data loss.
- Ensure you have a reliable internet connection during the download of Ubuntu 20.04 ISO file.
- Use a known-good USB flash drive to create the bootable installer to avoid errors during installation.
- Check your computer’s BIOS version and update it if necessary before starting the installation.
- If you’re not comfortable performing the downgrade yourself, consider seeking help from a professional or a tech-savvy friend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I lose my data when I downgrade from Ubuntu 22.04 to 20.04?
Yes, downgrading requires a fresh installation which will erase all the data on your hard drive.
Can I downgrade without using a USB drive?
No, you’ll need a bootable USB drive with Ubuntu 20.04 to perform the downgrade.
How long does the downgrade process take?
The process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on your computer’s speed and your internet connection.
Can I restore my applications after downgrading?
You’ll need to reinstall any software that was on your Ubuntu 22.04 system, but you can restore your data from the backup you made.
Is it possible to downgrade without losing my system settings?
No, downgrading to a previous version of Ubuntu will reset your system settings. You’ll need to configure your system settings again after the installation.
Summary
- Backup your data
- Create a bootable USB drive with Ubuntu 20.04
- Boot from the USB drive
- Install Ubuntu 20.04 and erase the disk
Conclusion
Downgrading from Ubuntu 22.04 to 20.04 is pretty straightforward, but it’s not a task to be taken lightly. Remember, you’re essentially wiping your current system clean and starting fresh with an older version of Ubuntu. While it may seem like a step back, sometimes compatibility or personal preference makes downgrading the best option. Be sure you’ve backed up all your important data before starting this process, as there’s no going back once you’ve begun. Also, reconsider if you really need to downgrade – sometimes, the latest version might have updates or patches that resolve your initial concerns. If you’ve decided to proceed, follow the steps above, and you’ll be running Ubuntu 20.04 in no time. Happy computing, and may your Ubuntu experience be just as you like it!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.