Learn how to create a bootable Xubuntu Live USB flash drive with persistence using the Startup Disk Creator, while running from a Live CD or DVD. This guide walks you through the process step-by-step — including enabling Ubuntu's Casper Persistence option so you can save changes and restore them between boots.
Xubuntu is a fork of Ubuntu that uses the lightweight XFCE desktop environment instead of GNOME. It's designed to consume fewer system resources, making it ideal for older or lower-powered hardware.
Distribution Home Page: Project Page
Persistent Feature: Yes
USB Xubuntu Boot Requirements
- Xubuntu Live CD or DVD
- Computer with a working CD/DVD Drive
- A fast USB flash drive – recommended USB drives
- Startup Disk Creator (USB Creator)
Install Startup Disk Creator (if missing)
NOTE: Older versions of Xubuntu include Startup Disk Creator by default. In newer versions, you’ll need to install it manually.
Open a terminal window with Ctrl + Alt + T and run the following command:
sudo apt install usb-creator-gtkPress Y when prompted to continue.
Important: Back up all files from your USB flash drive before proceeding.
Steps to Create a Bootable Persistent Xubuntu USB
- Download the Xubuntu ISO and burn it to a CD or DVD.
- Restart your computer and boot from the Live CD/DVD.
- Insert your USB flash drive.
- a) On newer versions: Navigate to All Applications > Startup Disk Creator
b) On older versions: Go to Applications > System > Startup Disk Creator
- (1.) Select your USB device under Disk to use and (2.) click Erase Disk
- (1.) Select the USB partition under Device
(2.) Check the Stored in reserved extra space option to enable persistence. Adjust the slider to choose how much space to reserve.
(3.) Click Make Startup Disk
- Once the progress bar finishes:
(1.) Remove the CD/DVD and restart your system
(2.) During boot, access your BIOS or Boot Menu
(3.) Set your computer to boot from USB
Booting from the Xubuntu Live USB
You should now be running Xubuntu from your bootable USB flash drive — with persistence enabled. This setup is useful for testing Xubuntu or installing it to a hard drive directly from the USB.
FAQs – Persistent Xubuntu USB
- Can I use this USB to install Xubuntu?
Yes, the same Live USB can be used to install Xubuntu to another machine. - What does persistence mean?
It lets you save files and settings so they remain after reboot. - Can I create this USB from Windows?
Yes, tools like Universal USB Installer allow creating persistent Xubuntu drives from Windows.
Next Steps
Want to try other distros? Explore more tutorials in our bootable USB guides.
💬 Questions? Send a message or check our Linux USB help section.