Installing Linux alongside Windows
By Tom Nonmacher
If you're interested in expanding your technical skills or simply want to try something new with your computer, installing Linux alongside Windows is a great place to start. Linux is an open-source operating system that's known for its robustness, security, and flexibility. While it might seem daunting at first, installing Linux alongside Windows is not as complicated as you might think. This process, known as dual-booting, allows you to choose whether to boot into Windows or Linux each time you turn on your computer. Here's how you can do it.
Before you start, it's important to backup all important data. Although the process is generally safe, there's always a risk of data loss when dealing with partitions and operating systems. You should also ensure that your computer has enough hard disk space for the new Linux installation. A minimum of 20 GB is recommended for most Linux distributions, but more is always better.
The first step is to create a partition on your hard disk for the Linux system. This can be done using the Disk Management tool in Windows. You need to shrink the volume of an existing partition, which will create unallocated space. This unallocated space is where you will install Linux. Remember, the size of this new partition should be at least 20 GB.
Next, you'll need to download the Linux distribution you want to install. There are many distributions available, but for beginners, options like Ubuntu or Linux Mint are recommended due to their user-friendly interfaces and extensive online support. After downloading the ISO file of your chosen distribution, you'll need to create a bootable USB stick. There are several free tools available for this, such as Rufus or Universal USB Installer.
Now, you're ready to install Linux. Restart your computer and boot from the USB stick. This can usually be done by pressing a specific key (often F12, F10, or ESC, depending on your computer's manufacturer) during startup to bring up the boot menu. Then, select the USB stick from the list of boot devices. This will start the Linux installer, where you'll choose "Install alongside Windows" or a similar option. Follow the instructions, select the unallocated space you created earlier for the installation, and complete the setup.
After successful installation, every time you boot your computer, you'll see a menu that lets you choose between Windows and Linux. This gives you the freedom to explore and learn Linux while still having the comfort of your familiar Windows system. If you ever decide that you no longer need Linux, you can easily remove it by deleting the Linux partition in Windows Disk Management and extending the Windows partition to reclaim the space.
In conclusion, installing Linux alongside Windows opens up a world of new possibilities, whether you're a tech enthusiast, an aspiring programmer, or a user looking for a more secure system. Just remember to take precautions and back up your data before starting. Happy exploring!