Linux Fedora boot settings WS boot configuration options
Linux Fedora boot settings WS boot configuration options
You're facing some challenges with Fedora on your single-drive, legacy multi-boot system. It sounds like you're looking for flexibility in how the OS boots or where the bootloader is set up. If you're not comfortable diving deep into the installation process, there might be simpler ways to adjust the boot configuration without changing the core setup.
I believe it combines the Windows boot manager partition with GRUB. Removing Linux from systems that already had it installed without reinstalling Windows hasn’t been easy, though I’m sure it’s achievable. In my opinion, the best solution is using a second drive. If GRUB only offers one boot option (such as Windows), it should simply start there directly. This setup should be defined in the installer regarding partition layout. My experience is mainly with Debian-based distros, so I may not be very helpful for Fedora users.
No dual bootloaders allowed on one disk means it won’t work with Windows directly. The Fedora installer should recognize Windows and let you place it next to the Windows partition. You might want to tell the installer not to add GRUB, but I’m unsure if the Windows bootloader will support Fedora. It seems you can only have one bootloader on a single disk since the BIOS checks the first few bytes after boot. If the Windows bootloader fails to detect Fedora, you’ll need to use GRUB instead. GRUB will then offer choices between Windows and Fedora.
It identifies available space but differs from Ubuntu by offering an option to install alongside Windows. I’m okay with the Windows bootloader failing to recognize Fedora. Can you find a way to install GRUB without using it? How would you set up GRUB over the Windows bootloader?
Manually dividing partitions and double verifying If the Windows bootloader isn't recognizing Fedora means you're also missing a dual-boot setup (no separate bootloaders on one drive). When installing Fedora normally, it will prompt for GRUB installation on the Master Boot Record. Accepting this will replace the Windows bootloader. Initially, GRUB might show only one OS option (Fedora), then you'll boot into Fedora and execute 'sudo update-grub'. GRUB should subsequently identify Windows and present a choice to switch back.