How to Install Ubuntu Netbook Remix (UNR) to a USB Drive

How to Install Ubuntu Netbook Remix (UNR) to a USB Drive: Ubuntu Netbook Remix (UNR) is a lightweight version of Ubuntu Linux developed by Canonical Ltd. for netbooks and other low-powered computers. Though officially discontinued, it remains an excellent operating system for reviving old netbooks and laptops.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to create a bootable Ubuntu Netbook Remix USB drive using tools like Universal USB Installer (UUI) on Windows or the dd command on Linux. Once complete, you'll be able to run UNR as a portable Live OS or install it directly to a computer.

Why Use Ubuntu Netbook Remix?

Optimized for small screens and low specs
Lightweight and fast, even on older hardware
Perfect alternative to Windows XP or Vista
Simple launcher interface with large, easy-to-navigate icons

Compatible Devices

Asus Eee PC
Acer Aspire One
Dell Inspiron Mini 9/10
HP Mini 1000
Any desktop or laptop with BIOS-level USB boot support

Ubuntu Netbook Remix Bootable USB Overview

Although designed for netbooks, UNR works great on desktops and laptops too. It's quick, convenient, and portable. Here's how to get it running from a USB flash drive.

Distribution Home Page: Project Page (discontinued)
Persistence Feature: Yes (with UUI)

Tools Needed

A Windows PC or Linux machine (WINE can work)
Ubuntu Netbook Remix ISO
USB flash drive (at least 2GB recommended)
Universal USB Installer (UUI)

How to Install Ubuntu Netbook Remix to USB Using Windows

Download the Ubuntu Netbook Remix ISO.
Download and launch Universal USB Installer.
Select "Try Unlisted ISO (GRUB)" and browse to the downloaded UNR ISO.
Choose your USB drive from the list and enable persistence (optional).
Click Create and wait for the process to complete.
Reboot your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI (commonly F2, F10, or Delete).
Set USB as the first boot device, save changes, and restart.

You should now see the boot menu. Select “Try Ubuntu Netbook Remix” to run the Live version or proceed with installation to your internal hard drive.

Create a Bootable USB for UNR Using Linux dd

If you're on a Linux system, you can create a bootable USB using the dd command. Use with caution, as it can overwrite drives.

Download the Ubuntu Netbook Remix ISO.
Insert your USB drive and identify the device name using:
```
lsblk
```
Unmount the USB drive:
```
sudo umount /dev/sdX1
```
Write the ISO to the USB:
```
sudo dd if=/path/to/ubuntu-netbook-remix.iso of=/dev/sdX bs=4M status=progress
```
Replace /path/to/ with your ISO path and /dev/sdX with your actual device name.
Once done, safely eject the drive:
```
sudo eject /dev/sdX
```
Boot from USB on your target system and follow on-screen instructions.

History of Ubuntu Netbook Remix

Ubuntu Netbook Remix (UNR) was launched in 2008 by Canonical to meet the demand for lightweight Linux systems tailored for small, low-power netbooks.

Timeline and Legacy

2008: Initial release with a custom UI designed for netbooks
Optimized UI: Featured a touch-friendly launcher instead of the traditional GNOME desktop
Popular Alternative: Gained traction as a lightweight option over Windows XP
2010: Integrated into the main Ubuntu distribution and renamed Ubuntu Netbook Edition
Today: Still useful for reviving old hardware or for users seeking a minimalist OS

Which UNR USB Creation Method to Use?

Tool	Platform	Persistence	Ease of Use	Best For
Universal USB Installer (UUI)	Windows	Yes	Beginner-Friendly	Most Users
dd command	Linux	No	Advanced	Experienced Users

Final Thoughts on Creating a USB Bootable UNR

Though Ubuntu Netbook Remix has been discontinued, it still serves as a powerful, lightweight OS for low spec hardware. With just a USB flash drive and a few simple steps, you can breathe new life into aging netbooks and laptops.

Looking for more USB Linux solutions? Check out our guides on: