The Ubuntu installation CD is available to download from the Ubuntu website as a CD image (.iso). Visit the Ubuntu website to download a copy. Select your country (or a country which is close to you) and click to download the PC (Intel x86) desktop CD. The instructions in this chapter assume that you are installing Ubuntu using the Desktop CD, although some users may wish to use the alternate install CD, a copy of which is available from the same download page.

The CD image is a very large file and may take several hours to download even with a fast Internet connection. If you have a slow Internet connection (such as dial-up), it is recommended that you obtain a CD by some other means (see the following sections).

Once you have downloaded the ISO file, you must burn it onto a CD. In order to do this, you will need suitable CD-writing software. Full instructions on burning the ISO file to disc are provided on the Ubuntu support website.

Ubuntu offers the ShipIt service, which will deliver a small set of Ubuntu CDs to you at no cost. Follow the instructions on the ShipIt website to place an order - delivery will typically take 6-10 weeks.

Ubuntu is freely available software libre. You are encouraged and legally entitled to copy, reinstall and redistribute your copy of Ubuntu, and so if you know someone who will allow you to borrow their Ubuntu CD, then by all means do so! If you have a local Linux user group, they may also be able to provide an Ubuntu disc for you.

It is possible to buy an Ubuntu CD from a third party, for a (typically) small charge. While these third parties are likely to be selling Ubuntu CDs for their own profit, you may find that buying a CD is the most convenient option for you.