Ubuntu's installer occasionally stops responding during file copying, particularly with the ubuntu-24.04.2-desktop-amd64 image. This issue typically arises due to hardware incompatibilities, corrupted installation media, or problematic BIOS settings. Addressing these factors can quickly get your installation back on track.

Method 1: Verify and Recreate Installation Media

Step 1: Begin by verifying the integrity of the downloaded ISO file. Navigate to Ubuntu's official download page, and use the provided SHA256 checksum to confirm your ISO file hasn't been corrupted during the download process. On Linux, you can run the following command in your terminal:

sha256sum ubuntu-24.04.2-desktop-amd64.iso

Compare the output checksum to the official checksum listed on Ubuntu's website.

Step 2: If the checksum doesn't match, re-download the ISO file from Ubuntu's official website. If the checksum matches, create a new bootable USB using reliable software like Rufus (Windows) or Etcher (cross-platform). Ensure you select the correct ISO and USB drive before initiating the process to avoid any errors.

Step 3: After creating the USB drive, restart your computer and boot from the USB again. Attempt the installation process to see if the freezing issue has been resolved.

Method 2: Adjust BIOS Settings

Step 1: Restart your computer and enter the BIOS settings. Typically, you can access the BIOS by pressing keys like F2, F10, F12, or DEL during startup.

Step 2: Within BIOS settings, locate the SATA operation mode setting. Change the SATA mode from RAID or IDE to AHCI. AHCI mode optimizes compatibility and can prevent installation hang-ups associated with storage driver issues.

Step 3: Disable the Secure Boot feature if it's enabled, as it can sometimes interfere with Linux installations. Find the Secure Boot setting under the Security or Boot options, and switch it off.

Step 4: Save your BIOS settings, reboot your system, and retry the Ubuntu installation process.

Method 3: Use Alternate Installation Options

Step 1: If standard installation continues to freeze, reboot your system and select the "Try Ubuntu without installing" option from the boot menu. Once the live environment loads, double-click the "Install Ubuntu" icon on the desktop. This method often bypasses issues encountered during direct installations.

Step 2: Alternatively, use Ubuntu's minimal installation option during the setup process. Selecting minimal installation reduces the number of files copied, decreasing the chance of encountering problematic files that cause the installer to hang.

Step 3: Proceed through the installation prompts as usual, and verify whether the installation completes successfully.

Method 4: Check Hardware Compatibility and Connections

Step 1: Inspect your hardware connections, especially hard drives and SSDs. Power down your computer, open the case, and verify that all SATA and power cables are firmly connected. Loose or damaged cables can cause intermittent data transfer failures, leading to installer freezes.

Step 2: If possible, test the installation using a different hard drive or USB port. Faulty hardware components can cause the installation to stall during file copying.

Step 3: Perform a memory test by selecting the "Test memory" option from the Ubuntu boot menu. Faulty RAM can cause unpredictable behavior during installation. Replace or reseat memory modules if errors are detected.

Following these methods should help you overcome the Ubuntu 24.04.2 installer freezing problem. Once installed, regularly update your system and drivers to keep your Ubuntu installation running smoothly.