To install sample data in Magento 2, you can follow these steps:

Step 1: Download the Sample Data
Visit the Magento Commerce website and navigate to the “Sample Data” section. Download the sample data package that matches your Magento version.

Step 2: Extract the Sample Data Files
Extract the downloaded sample data package to a local directory on your computer. This will create a folder containing the sample data files.

Step 3: Copy the Sample Data Files to Magento Directory
Copy all the extracted sample data files to the root directory of your Magento installation. Make sure to merge the sample data files with the existing files in your Magento installation.

Step 4: Set Up the Magento File System Owner
In the command line, navigate to the root directory of your Magento installation. Run the following command to set up the correct file system owner:

“`shell
sudo chown -R <file_system_owner>:<web_server_group> .
“`

Replace `<file_system_owner>` with the appropriate file system owner (e.g., `www-data` for Apache) and `<web_server_group>` with the web server group name (e.g., `www-data` for Apache).

Step 5: Install the Sample Data
In the command line, navigate to the root directory of your Magento installation. Run the following command to install the sample data:

“`shell
php bin/magento setup:upgrade
“`

This command installs the sample data modules and database schema required for the sample data.

Step 6: Deploy the Static Content
Run the following command to deploy the static content:

“`shell
php bin/magento setup:static-content:deploy
“`

This command generates the static files required for the sample data.

Step 7: Clear Cache
To ensure the sample data changes take effect, clear the Magento cache by running the following command:

“`shell
php bin/magento cache:clean
“`

Step 8: Verify the Installation
Visit your Magento store frontend and backend to verify that the sample data has been successfully installed. You should see new products, categories, and other sample data that comes with the package.

Note: Installing sample data is a process that modifies your Magento installation. It’s recommended to perform this step on a development or staging environment rather than a production site.

Congratulations! You have successfully installed sample data in Magento 2. The sample data will provide you with preconfigured products, categories, and other elements to help you understand and explore the features of Magento.