Installing Linux alongside Windows
By Tom Nonmacher
Are you interested in exploring the world of Linux but not quite ready to give up your Windows operating system? You're in luck! You can actually have the best of both worlds by installing Linux alongside Windows on your computer. This process, known as dual-booting, allows the user to choose which operating system to use at start-up. The beauty of dual-booting is that it gives you the flexibility to use Linux for tasks like programming, networking, and server management while still having access to Windows for other tasks.
Before we get started with the installation process, it's critical to back up your important files. Anything can go wrong during installation, and it's better to be safe than sorry. Once you've secured your files, you'll need to create a partition on your hard drive for the Linux installation. This can be done easily through the Disk Management tool in Windows. Shrink your current partition to free up space for the Linux partition. The amount of space you'll need will depend on your intended use, but typically, 20-50 GB should suffice for most users.
The next step is to download a Linux distribution (commonly referred to as "distro"). Ubuntu is a popular choice for beginners due to its user-friendly interface and robust community support. You can download it directly from the official Ubuntu website. The file will be in ISO format, which is a bootable image. Along with the distro, download and install a software called Rufus. This will help create a bootable USB drive with the Linux distro.
After downloading your preferred Linux distro and Rufus, insert your USB drive. Open Rufus, select your USB drive, and choose the ISO file you downloaded earlier. Click on 'Start' and Rufus will create a bootable USB. Restart your computer and boot from the USB drive. You might need to change your BIOS settings or use a boot menu to do this. How you do this will depend on your computer's manufacturer, so refer to your manual or perform a quick Google search if you're unsure.
Once you've booted from the USB, you will be greeted with the Linux installer. Follow the prompts and when you reach the 'Installation Type' screen, choose 'Install Linux alongside Windows.' Continue with the process and once complete, restart your computer. You'll now see a menu every time you boot up your computer, allowing you to choose whether to start Windows or Linux.
Dual-booting is a fantastic way to try Linux without giving up your familiar Windows environment. It can give you a taste of what Linux has to offer without any major commitment. Remember, the key to a successful dual-boot installation is preparation. Always backup your important files and ensure you have created a sufficient partition size for Linux. Welcome to the world of dual-booting!