I'm currently building a new PC and want to dual-boot Linux and Windows. I have two NVMe SSDs—one is a 4 TB drive that I want to use for Pop!_OS as my main system because of its recent driver updates, and the other is a 2 TB drive for gaming (like BF6). What's the best approach to set this up? I've heard that it's advisable to install Windows first, but my main focus is on using Linux. Any tips for doing this efficiently?
5 Answers
The easiest way to set this up is to install Windows on your 2 TB SSD first. Then, go ahead and install Linux on the 4 TB drive. This order helps avoid conflicts since Windows really tends to mess with Linux installations. After installing Linux, keep a Linux live USB handy so you can recover Grub in case a Windows update overwrites it.
You might find it helpful to check out some resources about dual booting. A quick YouTube video can provide insight into how to avoid issues with GRUB after Windows updates. That's a real headache with Windows, and it might sway your decision about fully transitioning to Linux in the future. Good luck with your setup!
To avoid Grub issues, just install Windows, unplug the installation drive, and then install Linux. This way, each OS can boot independently. You can set your BIOS to choose which OS to boot from. I've found this method hassle-free and it keeps everything clear without any Grub conflicts.
Definitely install Windows first, followed by Linux. This way, Linux will automatically include Windows in its boot menu. Also, keep your game folders separate between the two OSs; sharing game files via NTFS can lead to issues on Linux. Remember to check if Secure Boot is enabled for your distro if you're playing BF6—both Pop!_OS and CachyOS support it. Make sure to disable Secure Boot during Linux installation and enable it after. Lastly, remember to turn off Fast Boot in the UEFI settings, as it can cause problems with Linux.
Good point about Secure Boot! I didn’t realize that might be necessary.
I’m considering the same setup! I’ve been learning about driver updates and how they can sometimes break things on Linux. I’m actually testing Pop!_OS on a laptop to prepare for my full switch. The learning curve seems a bit daunting, but I’m ready to dive in. Keeping a backup of Windows just in case sounds like a good plan!
That sounds like a smart approach. Testing things out on your laptop first will definitely help you when you make the full switch!
I’ll definitely need to do some testing too before I take the plunge!
Thanks for the tips! I’ve heard about the issues with NTFS too. I’ll make sure to keep my game files isolated.