Create Bootable Alma Linux USB for Your Server

by | Mar 28, 2026 | Misc | 0 comments

The latest stable AlmaLinux 9.7 x86_64 DVD ISO for your x3550 M5 server is available at the Duke mirror you linked: https://mirror.linux.duke.edu/almalinux/9.7/isos/x86_64/AlmaLinux-9.7-x86_64-dvd.iso (about 12-14 GB; verify the SHA256 checksum listed on the mirror page after download using Windows CertUtil: certutil -hashfile filename.iso SHA256).

Download on Windows 11

Download the ISO directly in your browser from the link above to a folder like Downloads. Wait for the full file (check properties for ~12+ GB). Right-click the ISO > Properties > Digital Signatures tab to confirm it’s signed by AlmaLinux for authenticity.

Prepare USB Drive

Use an 8GB+ USB drive (16GB recommended; back up any data first as it will be erased).

  • Plug in the USB.
  • Open File Explorer, right-click This PC > Manage > Disk Management.
  • Find your USB (e.g., “Disk 1”, 14.9 GB removable). Right-click it > Delete Volume (repeat for all partitions until unallocated). Right-click unallocated space > New Simple Volume > Next through wizard, format as FAT32 (quick format). Close.
  1. Download Rufus from https://rufus.ie (latest portable version, no install needed; ~1.5 MB).
  2. Run Rufus.exe as Administrator (right-click > Run as administrator).
  3. In Rufus:
    • Device: Select your USB drive (double-check size/model to avoid wiping wrong drive).
    • Boot selection: Click SELECT > Browse to your downloaded AlmaLinux-9.7-x86_64-dvd.iso > Open.
    • Partition scheme: GPT (for UEFI boot on x3550 M5).
    • Target system: UEFI (non CSM).
    • File system: FAT32 (default).
    • Leave other defaults (no persistence).
  4. Click START. Confirm “Download?” if prompted (usually no). It will format and write (~10-20 min).
  5. When “READY” shows, close Rufus. Safely eject USB via File Explorer.

Boot on x3550 M5

  • Insert USB in server USB port.
  • Power on, press F1 during POST to enter System Configuration > Boot menu.
  • Set USB as first boot device; ensure UEFI boot mode (disable CSM/Legacy if needed).
  • Save/exit (F10). Installer loads graphical Anaconda interface for AlmaLinux setup.