Dual Boot Linux
with Windows

Create a bootable Linux USB drive

Download an Ubuntu ISO, insert a USB drive of at least 8 GB, and open Rufus on Windows. Select the USB drive, choose the ISO, keep the recommended UEFI and GPT settings, and click Start. Everything on the USB drive will be erased.

Boot the laptop using the USB drive

Back up important files and turn off BitLocker encryption before continuing. In Windows, open Manage BitLocker, select your Windows drive, and choose Turn off BitLocker. Wait for decryption to finish, then restart the laptop with the USB connected. Open the one-time boot menu using the key shown by your manufacturer, commonly F12, F9, Esc, or F2, then select the UEFI entry for your USB drive.

Start Linux and fill in the installer details

Choose Try or Install Ubuntu, then select your language, keyboard layout, internet connection, and timezone when prompted. For a normal desktop installation, keep the default options unless you know you need a minimal installation.

Create or select space for Linux

When the installer asks where to install Ubuntu, choose Install Ubuntu alongside Windows. This option automatically creates the needed Linux partition in available space. If you use manual partitioning instead, select only unallocated space and never format or delete Windows or EFI partitions. At least 25 GB is recommended for Linux, with more space for robotics tools.

Select Install alongside Windows and continue

Review the disk changes shown by the installer, set the amount of space you want Linux to use if prompted, and confirm the installation. Create your Linux username and password, then wait for the installation to finish. Do not turn off the laptop during this step.

Restart and test Windows and Linux

Remove the USB when the installer asks you to restart. The boot menu should let you choose Linux or Windows. Start both operating systems once, confirm your files are present, and install updates before adding development tools.