How to Dual Boot Ubuntu and Windows 11

Dual boot Ubuntu and Windows 11

If you’re looking to enjoy the best of both worlds by dual booting Ubuntu and Windows 11, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we will walk you through the detailed steps to set up a dual boot system with Ubuntu and Windows 11 seamlessly. This process will allow you to test out Ubuntu while still having the functionality of Windows. Let’s get started!

Why Dual Boot?

Dual booting offers users the flexibility to work with two different operating systems on the same machine. This is particularly useful for developers, gamers, or anyone who needs to use software that is exclusive to either Windows or Linux. Moreover, with the advancements in Ubuntu, it’s easier than ever to set up a dual boot system, especially with Windows 11.

Step 1: Disable Secure Boot

The first step in the dual boot process is to disable Secure Boot on your PC or laptop. Secure Boot can prevent the installation of non-Windows operating systems like Ubuntu. Here’s how to disable it:

1. Right-click on the Windows icon and select Settings.
2. From the left menu, click on System.
3. Scroll down and click on Recovery.
4. Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.
5. Once your computer restarts, click on Troubleshoot.
6. Select Advanced options and then UEFI Firmware Settings.
7. Click on Restart.

Once in the BIOS, locate the Secure Boot option and disable it. After disabling, press F10 to save changes and exit. Your computer will restart.

Step 2: Create a Partition for Ubuntu

Next, you will need to create a new partition for Ubuntu. You’ll need at least 30 GB of unallocated space. Here’s how to do it:

1. Right-click on the Windows icon and select Disk Management.
2. Locate the C drive, right-click on it, and choose Shrink Volume.
3. Enter the amount of space to shrink in MB (for 30 GB, enter 30720 MB).
4. After shrinking, right-click on the unallocated space and select New Simple Volume.
5. Follow the prompts to create the new volume and label it as Ubuntu.

Step 3: Create a Bootable USB Drive

To install Ubuntu, you need a bootable USB drive. Follow these steps:

1. Download the Ubuntu ISO from the official website.
2. Download Rufus to create a bootable USB drive.
3. Insert your USB drive (at least 8 GB) and open Rufus.
4. In Rufus, select your USB drive and then choose the downloaded Ubuntu ISO.
5. Click on Start and confirm that you want to erase the USB drive.

The process will take about 10 minutes. Once completed, your bootable USB will be ready.

Step 4: Boot from the USB Drive

Now that you have your bootable USB, it’s time to boot from it:

1. Right-click on the Windows icon and select Settings.
2. Click on System, then Recovery.
3. Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.
4. On the blue screen, select Use a device and choose your USB drive.

Your computer will boot from the USB, and you’ll see the Ubuntu installation menu.

Step 5: Install Ubuntu

Follow these steps to install Ubuntu:

1. Select Try or Install Ubuntu.
2. Choose your desired language and click Install Ubuntu.
3. Select your keyboard layout and click Continue.
4. Choose between Normal Installation or Minimal Installation and click Continue.
5. Select Install Ubuntu alongside Windows Boot Manager and click Continue.
6. Adjust the partition sizes if necessary and click Install Now.
7. Follow the prompts to set your location, username, and password.

The installation will take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once completed, you will need to restart your computer.

Step 6: Booting into Ubuntu or Windows

After restarting, you’ll see a screen asking which operating system you want to boot into:

• Select Ubuntu to boot into Ubuntu.
• Select Windows Boot Manager to boot into Windows 11.

When you select Ubuntu, it will load up and prompt you to enter your password. Once logged in, you can start using Ubuntu! If you want to return to Windows, restart and select the Windows Boot Manager.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully set up a dual boot system with Ubuntu and Windows 11. This setup allows you to enjoy the features of both operating systems without having to sacrifice one for the other. If you found this guide helpful, please consider liking and subscribing for more valuable content. Happy computing!