I'm planning to try Linux while keeping Windows 11, so I'd like to set up a dual-boot system. I'm unsure whether I need to move or copy my current C: drive first, since I don't have an external drive large enough for everything on it. I do have about 97 GB free on C:, roughly 497 GB available on another drive, a 2 TB external drive, and a 28 GB USB flash drive. The computer is a Lenovo, although I don't know the exact model.
I'd also like a Linux setup with an interface similar to Windows 10. Which distribution and desktop environment would be a good choice, and how should I download and install it from the USB drive? Are there Windows or firmware settings I should change before installing, and are there any other precautions or tips I should know?
3 Answers
Before changing partitions, make a backup of documents, photos, and anything else important. Also disable Windows Fast Startup, since it can leave NTFS drives in an unsafe state for Linux to access. Check whether BitLocker or device encryption is enabled and make sure you have the recovery key. Follow the installer carefully so you select the unallocated space rather than formatting the Windows partition.
You generally don’t need to move the entire C: drive. Back up your important personal files first, then shrink the Windows partition using Windows’ disk management tools and install Linux in the unallocated space. If possible, installing Linux on a separate internal drive is cleaner than sharing one drive, but an external drive usually isn’t ideal for a normal dual-boot setup. Keep a recovery option for Windows in case something goes wrong, and don’t rely on the Linux installation as your only backup.
With around 97 GB free on C:, you may be able to shrink that partition, although Windows might not allow the full amount if files are placed near the end of the volume. Clean up unnecessary files first and leave enough room for Windows updates. Your 28 GB USB drive is more than enough for a Linux installer; it doesn’t need to contain a copy of your whole Windows installation.
I’ll clean up the drives first. The available space is roughly 97 GB on C: and 497 GB on the other drive, so I need to decide where Linux should go.
I have another drive with quite a bit of free space, plus a larger external drive. Would using the other drive be the safer option?