Rocky Linux has arrived! This free, enterprise-grade alternative to Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) is ideal for servers, cloud deployments, or even your personal machine.

This guide simplifies downloading and installing Rocky Linux. We'll cover everything, from grabbing the installer to booting your system and getting things rolling.

Gear Up:

• Your trusty computer (physical or virtual)
• A stable internet connection
• A USB flash drive with at least 2GB of free space
• (Optional) Pre-downloaded Rocky Linux ISO (instructions below)

Step 1: Download the Rocky Linux ISO

Head to the official Rocky Linux download page: https://rockylinux.org/download. Choose the version that matches your system's architecture (usually x86_64).

Step 2: Craft a Bootable USB Drive

We'll use the downloaded ISO to create a bootable USB drive, allowing you to boot your system directly from Rocky Linux. Here are some popular tools for this task, depending on your operating system:

• Windows: Rufus (https://rufus.ie/)
• macOS: Built-in Utility Disk tool
• Linux: Startup Disk Creator (often pre-installed)

Step 3: Boot Up from the USB Drive

With your bootable USB drive ready, restart your computer. During boot, access the boot menu (often F12, Esc, or Del). Choose the option to boot from your USB drive.

Step 4: Install Rocky Linux

The user-friendly Rocky Linux installer will greet you. Here's a simplified walkthrough:

• Select your preferred language and keyboard layout.
• Configure your network settings (if needed).
• Choose the software packages you want to install (options for minimal server, workstation, or customization are available).
• Set up a strong root password and create a regular user account.
• Review the installation summary and confirm to begin the process.

Step 5: Boot into Your New Rocky Linux System

Once the installation is complete, reboot your system. Remove the USB drive and boot directly from your hard drive. You've successfully installed Rocky Linux!

Bonus Tips:

• The Rocky Linux documentation offers a detailed installation guide with screenshots.
• For advanced users, the installer allows manual partitioning for more control over your disk layout.

Conclusion: 

Rocky Linux offers a robust, secure, and free platform for your server, cloud environment, or even your personal computer. With its active community and extensive documentation, you'll find a wealth of resources to guide you on your journey.