Want to run both Windows and Linux on the same laptop? 💻 You can easily dual boot them by following this step-by-step guide. No data loss or expert skills needed. Let’s get started!
📦 Step 1: Backup Your Data
- Always back up your important files before modifying partitions
- Use external drives, cloud storage, or backup software
- Better safe than sorry!
🧱 Step 2: Create Space for Linux
- Press
Win + X→ Select Disk Management - Right-click on your main partition (usually C:) → Choose Shrink Volume
- Shrink 20–50 GB (or more) for Linux
This unallocated space will be used for Linux installation.
💿 Step 3: Download a Linux ISO
- Popular choices: Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Debian
- Download the ISO file to your PC
🔧 Step 4: Create Bootable USB
- Use Rufus on Windows
- Select your ISO and USB drive
- Choose “GPT + UEFI” if your system supports it
- Click Start to create the bootable USB
🚀 Step 5: Boot from USB and Install Linux
- Restart your laptop and press Boot Menu key (F12, F9, Esc, etc.)
- Select your USB drive
- Start the Linux installer (try live version if you want)
📂 Step 6: Dual Boot Setup in Installer
- In installation type, choose “Install alongside Windows” if available
- OR select “Something else” to manually pick the free space
- Create partitions:
- Root (`/`) – 20 GB+
- Swap – 2 GB or match RAM
- Optional: `/home` – for user data
- Continue install and follow prompts
🔁 Step 7: Reboot and Choose OS
- After install, remove the USB
- You’ll now see a boot menu (GRUB) every time your PC starts
- Select Windows or Linux from the menu
Congrats! 🎉 You now have both Windows and Linux on the same machine. Enjoy the flexibility of switching OS anytime without needing separate hardware.
Tags
Tips