Linux beginner issue Setting up your first system
Linux beginner issue Setting up your first system
I cannot update my old, self-built computer to Window 11. (Nor do I want too now.) I am going to build a new system but in the meantime, I was wondering if it work well enough to add a spare SATA drive to my old system and load Linux onto it. I do want to go through the troubles of partitioning me old drive, and it is getting a little too full anyway. That would give me dual-boot capability without the partition. I cannot see how this would not be viable, but I thought I would ask to be sure. You never know, something in the system might object. I know a bit, but I know enough to be dangerous. Thanks for any advice folks!
The best method for dual-booting is recommended. Disconnect the Windows drive during installation to avoid mistakenly inserting the bootloader into the Windows EFI folder. Current installers are usually more advanced, but it's safer to err on the side of caution.
Linux handles your disk partitions automatically without needing manual changes. If you select "Install Beside," it intelligently allocates unused space on the drive for Windows while reserving part of it for Linux. You can still adjust sizes manually if desired, though most users rely on the installer to manage it.
When using tools similar to Mint, you're prompted about the bootloader location. Keeping the Windows drive connected provides advantages like automatic detection and managing dual-boot configurations. The Grub interface and related settings will be configured automatically.
The distros I know all use GParted during setup. It offers flexibility, letting you adjust partition sizes or customize your installation as needed.
Most contemporary Linux distributions provide this feature. However, when Linux and Windows share an EFI partition, upcoming Windows updates might overwrite it—though I’ve installed both on the same drive without problems. Using a separate partition for /boot/efi in the BIOS boot menu is another viable method.