LinuxLive USB Creator

LinuxLive USB Creator is a free and open-source software for Windows. It will help you in your journey of discovery with Linux. For you, LiLi creates portable, bootable and virtualized USB stick running Linux.



LinuxLive USB Creator, also known as LiLi, is a user-friendly application designed to create bootable Live USB drives for Linux distributions. The software simplifies the process of installing and running Linux from a USB stick, making it an ideal tool for beginners and advanced users alike.

Its primary purpose is to enable users to test or install Linux without modifying their existing system or using a CD/DVD. With an intuitive interface and a range of powerful features, this software provides a seamless experience for exploring the world of Linux.

Highlights

Not only for geeks
The tool is designed to be used by both beginners and geeks. If you are a beginner, LiLi will let you try Linux for the first time, keeping Windows clean of any modifications. And if you are a geek, LiLi will allow you to test almost any Linux distributions directly from Windows, or just install them from a USB flash drive instead of CDs.

Free and Open-source
LinuxLive USB Creator is a completely free and open-source software for Windows only. It has been built with simplicity in mind and it can be used by anyone. All you have to do is to pick up a Linux on the list and give it a try.

No reboot needed
Are you sick of having to reboot your PC to try Linux? No need with LinuxLive USBCreator. It has a built-in virtualization feature that lets you run your Linux within Windows just out of the box!

Supports many Linux distributions
Wow! Did you see that never-ending list? They are almost all there: Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, OpenSUSE, Mint, Slax, CentOS, ArchLinux, Gentoo, PCLinuxOS, Sabayon, BackTrack, Puppy Linux.

Persistence
Having a Live USB key is better than just using a Live CD because you can even save your data and install the software. This feature is called persistence (available only on selected Linux).

SmartClean & SmartDownload
SmartClean uninstalls properly any previous Live USB installations and SmartDownload lets you download any supported Linux in 2 clicks automatically selecting the best mirror to download from. SmartClean also lets you clean your USB key in 1 click.

Features

Automatic Download
The application can automatically download the desired Linux distribution from the internet, saving users the trouble of finding and downloading ISO files manually.

Persistence Mode
One of the standout features is the persistence mode, allowing users to save changes and personal data across reboots. This means that settings, files, and installed applications can be retained on the USB drive.

SmartClean
The SmartClean feature ensures that the USB drive is clean before creating the bootable environment, preventing potential conflicts or issues during the creation process.

Portable VirtualBox
It includes Portable VirtualBox, enabling users to run their Linux directly within Windows. This is particularly useful for those who want to test Linux without rebooting their system.

Hidden Installation
The software allows for a hidden installation mode, making it possible to create a bootable USB without displaying the typical setup files. This is useful for creating discreet Linux installations.

User-Friendly Interface
The application boasts an easy-to-use interface that guides users through each step of the process, making it accessible for individuals with varying levels of technical expertise.

Compatibility
It supports a wide range of Linux distributions, ensuring that users can choose from numerous options to suit their needs and preferences.

User Interface

The user interface of this application is designed with simplicity and ease of use in mind. Upon launching the application, users are greeted with a clean and intuitive dashboard that provides clear instructions for each step of the process. The main window is divided into several sections, each representing a stage in the USB creation process.

These sections include selecting the source, choosing the USB drive, configuring options, and starting the creation process. The interface uses icons and progress bars to provide visual feedback, making it easy for users to track their progress and understand what is happening at each stage.

Installation and Setup

Download and Installation
To get started, users need to download the software from the official website. The installation process is straightforward, with a standard setup wizard guiding users through the necessary steps. Once installed, the application is ready to use.

Selecting the Source
Users can choose from three options for the source: downloading a Linux distribution directly through the application, using an existing ISO file, or selecting a CD/DVD.

Choosing the USB Drive
Next, users need to select the USB drive they wish to use for the bootable environment. The software automatically detects connected USB drives and displays them in a dropdown menu.

Configuring Options
This stage involves configuring various options, such as enabling persistence mode, hiding the installation, and selecting additional features like Portable VirtualBox.

Starting the Creation Process
Once all options are configured, users can start the creation process with a single click. The software handles the rest, preparing the USB drive and installing the selected Linux distribution.

How to Use

Launching the Application
After installation, launch the application from the desktop or start menu.

Selecting the Source
Choose whether to download a new Linux distribution, use an existing ISO file, or select a CD/DVD as the source.

Choosing the USB Drive
Select the USB drive from the dropdown menu. Ensure that the drive is empty or contains no important data, as it will be formatted during the process.

Configuring Options
Enable persistence mode if desired, choose whether to hide the installation, and select additional features like Portable VirtualBox.

Starting the Creation
Click the "Create" button to start the process. The software will download or verify the source, format the USB drive, and install the Linux distribution. Progress is displayed on the main window.

Booting from the USB Drive
Once the process is complete, restart your computer and boot from the USB drive. This may require changing the boot order in the BIOS settings.

FAQ

Can I use this software on a Mac?
No, the application is designed for Windows systems. However, you can create a bootable USB on a Windows machine and then use it to boot a Mac.

Is my data safe during the creation process?
The USB drive will be formatted, so ensure that any important data is backed up before proceeding. The software itself does not affect data on your computer.

Can I use the USB drive for other purposes after creating a bootable environment?
Yes, but it's recommended to use a dedicated USB drive for the bootable environment to avoid conflicts and ensure persistence mode functions correctly.

How much space do I need on the USB drive?
The required space depends on the size of the Linux distribution and whether you enable persistence mode. Generally, a minimum of 4GB is recommended.

Can I update the Linux distribution on the USB drive?
Yes, if persistence mode is enabled, you can update the Linux distribution and save changes across reboots.

Alternatives

Rufus - Rufus is a popular alternative that also creates bootable USB drives. It is known for its speed and reliability. However, it lacks some features like persistence mode and Portable VirtualBox.

UNetbootin - UNetbootin is another widely used tool that allows users to create bootable Live USB drives for various Linux distributions. It supports both Windows and Linux but does not include features like hidden installation or Portable VirtualBox.

balenaEtcher - A cross-platform application known for its simplicity and ease of use. It is a good alternative for users looking for a straightforward tool to create bootable USB drives without additional features.

System Requirements

• Operating System: Windows 7, 8, 10, 11
• Processor: Intel Pentium 4 or later
• RAM: 512MB or more
• Hard Drive: 50MB of free space for the application
• USB Drive: Minimum 4GB recommended

PROS

• User-friendly interface
• Automatic download of Linux distributions
• Persistence mode for saving data across reboots
• Includes Portable VirtualBox for running Linux within Windows
• Free to use

CONS

• This application has been discontinued
• Windows-only application
• USB drive must be formatted, leading to potential data loss if not backed up
• Not as fast as some alternatives like Rufus

Conclusion

LinuxLive USB Creator is a robust and user-friendly tool for creating bootable Live USB drives for Linux distributions. Its range of features, including persistence mode and Portable VirtualBox, sets it apart from many alternatives. While it is limited to Windows users and may not be the fastest option available, its ease of use and comprehensive functionality make it an excellent choice for both beginners and advanced users.

Whether you're looking to explore Linux, install it on a new system, or run it alongside Windows, this application provides a reliable and efficient solution.