I'm planning to switch to Linux and want to dual boot Windows 11 alongside Pop!_OS. I've heard that Windows can overwrite the bootloader, which sounds like a hassle to fix. What can I do to prevent that from happening? I have an SSD where I want to install both operating systems, but I'm a bit worried about the boot process when dealing with two different OSs.
4 Answers
If you're really cautious about it, consider installing Linux on a secondary hard drive instead of the SSD. But as you mentioned you want to use Linux as your main OS, it might make more sense to just stick with the SSD for dual booting.
Unfortunately, you can’t fully prevent Windows from messing with the bootloader. However, there's a handy workaround: keep your Linux installer on a USB drive. If Windows does overwrite your bootloader, you can just boot from the USB and run `grub-install` to fix it up again. Make sure to check whether Pop!_OS uses grub or systemd-boot for the exact command.
Honestly, another option is to just get a second computer if you can swing it. But I get it—budget can be tight, especially in places where the cost of living is high.
I'm in a similar boat right now! I want to use Linux as my main OS too, so I totally understand the need to install it on the SSD. It just seems more efficient that way.
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