How to Make Ubuntu Dual Boot with Windows 10

Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux-based operating systems in the world. It’s free, open-source, and customizable which makes it a favorite for developers and Linux enthusiasts. However, if you’re a Windows user, it can be quite intimidating to make the switch to Ubuntu full-time. Fortunately, you can install Ubuntu alongside Windows in a process called dual-booting. In this article, we’ll show you how to make Ubuntu dual-boot with Windows 10.

Video Tutorial:

Why You Need to Make Ubuntu Dual-Boot with Windows 10

There are several reasons why you may want to make Ubuntu dual-boot with Windows 10. For one, if you’re a software developer, Ubuntu is an excellent platform for developing and testing software. Additionally, Ubuntu is known for its stability and security, making it an attractive option for those concerned about cyber threats. Finally, Ubuntu is highly customizable, which means you can tailor the operating system to your liking.

Method 1: Via Wubi

Wubi is an officially supported tool for installing Ubuntu as an application within the Windows operating system. This method is suitable for those who are afraid of partitioning their drive, but it’s not as stable or reliable as a traditional dual-boot.

Steps:

1. Visit the Ubuntu website and download the Wubi installer.
2. Run the installer and choose the desired installation directory and partition size.
3. Select the Ubuntu flavor you want to install, and set a username and password.
4. Wait for the installation to complete.
5. Reboot your computer and choose Ubuntu from the Windows Boot Manager.

Pros:
– It’s straightforward and easy to use.
– Doesn’t require any knowledge of partitioning.
– It’s a suitable option for those who only need to test Ubuntu.

Cons:
– Wubi isn’t as reliable as a full-fledged dual-boot.
– There may be issues with performance and stability.
– It may not work with newer versions of Ubuntu.

Method 2: Via USB Drive

Installing Ubuntu via a USB drive is probably the most popular method. You’ll need to create a bootable USB drive with the Ubuntu ISO file on it.

Steps:

1. Download Ubuntu ISO file.
2. Download Rufus or any other USB writing tool.
3. Create a bootable USB drive by following the instructions provided by the tool.
4. Insert the USB drive into the computer and boot it.
5. Choose "Install Ubuntu" and follow the installation wizard.
6. When prompted, select the "Install Ubuntu alongside Windows 10" option.
7. Choose the desired partition sizes for each operating system.
8. Set your username and password.
9. Finish the installation and reboot your computer.

Pros:
– It’s a tried and tested method.
– You have complete control over the installation.
– It’s suitable for those who need Ubuntu as their primary operating system.

Cons:
– Partitioning can be complicated for beginners.
– There’s always a chance of data loss if the user is not careful.

Method 3: Using Virtual Machine

A virtual machine is a software program that can run an entire operating system within another. You can install Ubuntu as a virtual machine on your Windows 10 system, which means you don’t need to partition your hard drive.

Steps:

1. Download and install a virtual machine software like VirtualBox or VMware.
2. Download Ubuntu ISO file.
3. Create a new virtual machine and select the Ubuntu ISO file as the boot media.
4. Configure the virtual machine settings, including the amount of RAM, hard drive space, and CPU cores.
5. Start the virtual machine and install Ubuntu within it.

Pros:
– The system is isolated from the host operating system.
– It’s an excellent option for testing or running Ubuntu applications.
– There’s no need to partition your hard drive.

Cons:
– Performance can be slow, especially if the host system is resource-intensive.
– Some features like graphics and audio may not work correctly.

What to Do If You Can’t Make Ubuntu Dual-Boot with Windows 10

If you’re having trouble making Ubuntu dual-boot with Windows 10, here are some fixes to try:

– Disable Fast Startup: Fast startup can interfere with the installation process. To disable it, go to Settings > System > Power & sleep > Additional power settings > Choose what the power buttons do > Change settings that are currently unavailable. Uncheck the "Turn on fast startup" option.
– Disable secure boot: Secure boot can prevent Ubuntu from booting correctly. Go to the BIOS settings and disable secure boot.
– Check partition tables: Make sure that both partitions are using the same partition table, either MBR or GPT.
– Confirm System Compatibility: Confirm that your computer meets the necessary requirements to run Ubuntu, including system requirements and hardware compatibility.

Bonus Tip

When installing Ubuntu alongside Windows 10, always back up your data first. Accidents can always occur during partitioning, which can lead to data loss.

5 FAQs

Q1: Can I remove Ubuntu and keep Windows 10?

A: Yes, you can remove Ubuntu safely. However, you will lose all your Ubuntu data.

Q2: Can I resize partitions after installation?

A: Yes, you can use Disk Management in Windows to resize partitions. However, before attempting to resize a partition, be sure to back up your data.

Q3: Can I install Ubuntu without a USB drive?

A: Yes, you can use a CD/DVD as the boot media.

Q4: Should I use the 64-bit or 32-bit version?

A: If your system supports it, we recommend using the 64-bit version. It’s more secure and has better performance.

Q5: Can I install Ubuntu alongside Windows 10 on an external hard drive?

A: Yes, it’s possible to install Ubuntu on an external hard drive. However, make sure that the external hard drive is bootable.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, dual-booting Ubuntu with Windows 10 is an excellent way to enjoy both operating systems simultaneously. By following any of the above methods, you can have the best of both worlds. Remember to back up your data before attempting any partitioning or installation process.