Installing Linux (Ubuntu) Without Affecting Windows
Objective: To install Ubuntu Linux on a computer without affecting an existing
Windows installation, ensuring a dual-boot setup for flexibility.
Requirements:
1. A computer with Windows installed.
2. A USB drive (at least 8GB capacity).
3. A stable internet connection.
4. Ubuntu ISO file (downloaded from the official Ubuntu website).
5. Rufus or Balena Etcher (to create a bootable USB).
6. Free disk space (at least 20GB) on your hard drive.
Step 1: Download Ubuntu ISO
• Visit the official Ubuntu website: https://ubuntu.com/download
• Choose the latest stable version of Ubuntu and download the ISO file.
Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive
• Download and install Rufus or Balena Etcher.
• Insert the USB drive into your computer.
• Open Rufus, select the USB drive, and load the Ubuntu ISO file.
• Click "Start" and wait for the process to complete.
Step 3: Prepare the Hard Drive
• Open "Disk Management" in Windows (Press Win + X and select "Disk
Management").
• Shrink an existing partition to create at least 20GB of unallocated space.
• Do not format the new space; it will be used during the Ubuntu installation.
Step 4: Boot from USB Drive
• Restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings (press F2, F12,
Esc, or Del during boot).
• Change the boot order to prioritize USB.
• Save changes and restart; the system will boot into the Ubuntu installer.
Step 5: Install Ubuntu
• Select "Try Ubuntu" to check system compatibility.
• Click on "Install Ubuntu" and follow the setup wizard.
• Choose "Install Ubuntu alongside Windows" when prompted.
• Select the previously created unallocated space for installation.
• Follow on-screen instructions to set up a username and password.
• Click "Install Now" and wait for the process to finish.
Step 6: Configure Bootloader
• Once installation is complete, restart your computer.
• The GRUB bootloader will appear, allowing you to choose between Ubuntu
and Windows.
Step 7: Final Checks
• Boot into both Ubuntu and Windows to verify that both operating systems
work properly.
• Install necessary updates and drivers in Ubuntu.
Conclusion: By following this guide, users can install Ubuntu Linux without
affecting their Windows installation, allowing them to switch between operating
systems as needed. This dual-boot setup provides flexibility and enables users to
explore Linux while keeping Windows intact.
References:
• https://ubuntu.com/download (Official Ubuntu site)