booting old version of Ubuntu Linux

[Tiggy_dorset]

Ok... I used to use an older version of Ubuntu about 3 years ago. It is installed on an external HD in a casing which connects via usb port. I have just dug it out and wish to get it booted again. Since then I have upgraded my laptop and now using Windows 7.

How do I get it booted? I have it connected but Windows cannot see it, presumably because the external HD is a different format having the old Ubuntu on it.

I don't think my bios currently sees the external HD either, nor has the option of booting from USB that I can see.

 

[Brummie]

If you just want to get the data off it you could try booting a linux live cd/dvd/usb and that way you would be able to access the data or if you want to boot from the external hard drive in which case I think you might have to use a linux rescue distro such as system rescue .

What brand of laptop is it?

 

[Tiggy_dorset]

I am on a Medion Akoya E7219.

Not looking for a new installation, just want access to the data files I guess: word documents, pics ect.
I will look into setting up the live cd/usb.

 

[rtbcomp]

You may have to adjust your bios so USB appears in the boot sequence before C:. or watch the screen as the power up sequence runs, you may be able to press a key to manually select the boot device. (It's F12 on my machines).

It should read the data from Windows though, it may depend how the USB drive is partitioned. In Windows explorer look for drive letters beyond the usual last drive.

 

[Tiggy_dorset]

downloading the iso now. Will try to get it to boot from usb, otherwise I will try for cd.

 

[Shedendman]

just download another distro and install it along side the OS you already have on it DUAL BOOT
During installation you'll get a warning whether you want to overide or run/dual boot
Make sure you get the correct Linux for your lappy ie 32bit or 64bit
https://distrowatch.com/ loads there

 

[Brummie]

downloading the iso now. Will try to get it to boot from usb, otherwise I will try for cd.

just been nosey what distro did you opt for?

 

[Tiggy_dorset]

Ubuntu 16.04.3 LTS

 

[Tiggy_dorset]

Winner winner, chicken dinner.

Got Ubuntu booted from USB, I have access to my files.
I thought it wouldn't be difficult, just needed a pointy finger to remind me of the way to go.

Thanks chaps.

 

[CKJDJK]

Windows should recognise the drive. If it does not then run disc management and see if it has been assigned a dive letter. If not then give it one that is not already in use. https://www.lifewire.com/how-to-open-disk-management-2626080