Consider a Linux distribution that supports dual-booting with Windows 11, such as Ubuntu or Fedora.
Consider a Linux distribution that supports dual-booting with Windows 11, such as Ubuntu or Fedora.
Currently I use Windows 11 Pro on my main workstation, but eventually I want to move to Linux. For the switch, I’d like to dual-boot. I’m not sure which distributions support SB or if it’s feasible to dual-boot with Windows 11. I’m looking for any free, open-source distros that are lightweight and have fast updates. Any help would be appreciated!
There are three main distributions I’m familiar with that come pre-configured: Ubuntu, Fedora Workstation, and OpenSUSE. Ubuntu seems ideal for beginners, especially if you’re already comfortable with Linux. Fedora and OpenSUSE both offer great experiences, with OpenSUSE typically handling Nvidia drivers more smoothly in my experience. None of these are ultra-lightweight, but they all work well on older hardware from around 2010. Ubuntu tends to lag behind in updates, while OpenSUSE rolls out changes quickly, and Fedora Workstation offers a stable static release.
By default, all official Ubuntu variants (and several Ubuntu flavors) along with Fedora also include Secure Boot support, as well as lighter desktop options that resemble your preferred look. Most distributions naturally allow Secure Boot without major changes, though setting it up on faster-release distros may need more effort. It’s generally advisable to wait until later if you want to configure it yourself.
The setup is feasible even with SB enabled; you don’t need to turn it off specifically.
All listed distributions have covered the required payment for integration with Microsoft's TPM module.
For limited Linux use, Ventoy offers a bootable USB option. A plugin lets you load an ISO from a local drive, and another plugin handles persistence, enabling dual booting without changing boot entries. Recently, a virtual disk plugin was added, allowing an installed distro on a separate partition while keeping the original setup intact. You can switch between the flash drive and your main drive seamlessly, with secure boot support available. Ventoy Virtual Disk Plugin and Ventoy Persistence Plugin are key features.