If you’re interested in having both Windows 10 and Linux Mint on your PC, dual booting is the way to go. This guide will show you how to split your hard drive, install Linux Mint, and set up your computer to choose between Windows 10 and Linux Mint each time it starts.
How to Dual Boot Windows 10 and Linux Mint
In this section, you’ll learn how to set up your computer to run both Windows 10 and Linux Mint. This involves partitioning your hard drive, installing Linux Mint, and configuring your boot loader.
Step 1: Backup Your Data
Before you start, back up all important data on your computer.
This is crucial because partitioning your hard drive and installing a new operating system can potentially lead to data loss.
Step 2: Create a Partition for Linux Mint
Use Disk Management in Windows 10 to shrink your current partition and create a new one for Linux Mint.
To access Disk Management, right-click the Start button and select "Disk Management." Right-click on your main partition and select "Shrink Volume" to free up space for Linux Mint. Create a new partition in the unallocated space.
Step 3: Download Linux Mint
Go to the official Linux Mint website and download the ISO file.
Choose the version of Linux Mint you want. The ISO file will be used to create a bootable USB drive.
Step 4: Create a Bootable USB Drive
Use a tool like Rufus to create a bootable USB drive with the Linux Mint ISO file.
Insert a USB drive into your computer, open Rufus, select the Linux Mint ISO file, and click "Start." This will prepare your USB drive for installation.
Step 5: Boot from the USB Drive
Restart your computer and boot from the USB drive.
You’ll need to change the boot order in your BIOS/UEFI settings to prioritize booting from the USB drive. Typically, you can access these settings by pressing a key like F2, F12, or Delete during startup.
Step 6: Install Linux Mint
Follow the on-screen instructions to install Linux Mint on the new partition.
During installation, choose the option to install Linux Mint alongside Windows 10. Make sure to select the correct partition you created earlier.
Step 7: Configure the Boot Loader
After installation, you’ll be prompted to configure the GRUB boot loader.
The GRUB boot loader will let you choose between Windows 10 and Linux Mint each time you start your computer. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your computer will restart and present you with a menu to choose between Windows 10 and Linux Mint. Select your desired operating system, and you’re ready to go!
Tips for Dual Booting Windows 10 and Linux Mint
- Backup Regularly: Always keep backups of important data in case something goes wrong during the installation process.
- Check System Requirements: Ensure your computer meets the system requirements for both operating systems.
- Stay Organized: Label your partitions clearly to avoid confusion during installation.
- Update Regularly: Keep both operating systems updated to ensure security and compatibility.
- Learn Basic Linux Commands: Familiarize yourself with basic Linux commands to navigate and troubleshoot in Linux Mint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I undo dual booting?
Yes, you can revert to a single operating system by deleting the partitions and repairing the boot loader. However, this process can be complex and may result in data loss.
How much space should I allocate to Linux Mint?
A minimum of 20 GB is recommended, but more space will provide a better experience, especially if you plan on installing many applications or storing files.
Will dual booting slow down my computer?
No, dual booting itself doesn’t slow down your computer. Each operating system runs independently, so performance remains unaffected.
Can I access Windows files from Linux Mint?
Yes, you can access and modify Windows files from Linux Mint. However, be cautious not to alter system files.
What if Linux Mint doesn’t appear in the boot menu?
You may need to repair the GRUB boot loader. This can be done using a live USB of Linux Mint and following specific repair steps.
Summary of Dual Booting Windows 10 and Linux Mint
- Backup your data.
- Create a partition for Linux Mint.
- Download Linux Mint ISO file.
- Create a bootable USB drive.
- Boot from the USB drive.
- Install Linux Mint.
- Configure the boot loader.
Conclusion
Congrats! If you’ve followed these steps, you’ve successfully set up your computer to dual boot Windows 10 and Linux Mint. This setup gives you the best of both worlds, allowing you to enjoy the familiarity of Windows and the freedom of Linux.
Now that you can switch between operating systems, take the time to explore Linux Mint. It’s a versatile and powerful system that can handle a wide range of tasks. If any issues arise, numerous online forums and communities are ready to help.
Happy dual booting!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.