Installing Linux alongside Windows
By Tom Nonmacher
Welcome to our blog post where today, we will guide you through the process of installing Linux alongside Windows. This is a common practice among computer enthusiasts and professionals who love the flexibility and robustness of Linux but still need Windows for certain applications. It's also a great way to dip your toes into the world of Linux without fully abandoning the familiar environment of Windows. But before we start, please remember to back up all important files. Even though this is a straightforward process, it's better to be safe than sorry in case anything goes wrong.
The first step to installing Linux alongside Windows is to create free space on your hard drive. This is where your new Linux system will live. You can do this by using the built-in Disk Management tool in Windows. Simply right-click on the Start button, select 'Disk Management', find your main hard drive (usually labeled 'C:'), right-click it and choose 'Shrink Volume'. Enter the amount of space you wish to allocate to Linux (20GB should be more than enough for most purposes) and click 'Shrink'.
Now that you have free space on your hard drive, the next step is downloading the Linux distribution of your choice. There are many distributions available, each with its own unique features and benefits. Ubuntu is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly options, but feel free to choose whatever distribution you prefer. Go to the official website of your chosen distribution, download the ISO file, and create a bootable USB stick using tools like Rufus or Balena Etcher.
With the bootable USB stick ready, it's time to install Linux. Reboot your computer and enter the Boot Menu (the key to press varies depending on your system, but it's often F12, F2, or Del). Select the option to boot from your USB stick. This will start the Linux installer. Follow the instructions on the screen, making sure to select the 'Install alongside Windows' option when it appears. This will ensure that your Windows installation is not overwritten.
Once the installation is complete, your computer will reboot and you will be presented with a menu that allows you to choose between Windows and Linux every time your computer starts. Congratulations, you have successfully installed Linux alongside Windows! Now you can start exploring the world of Linux, safe in the knowledge that Windows is still there if you need it.
In conclusion, installing Linux alongside Windows is a relatively simple process that allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds. Whether you are a computer enthusiast looking to experiment with different operating systems, a professional needing the features of both systems, or a beginner curious about Linux, this guide should help you achieve your goal. As always, if you encounter any issues or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to our support team. We are always here to help!