I'm trying to install Linux Mint Cinnamon alongside Windows 11 on a Lenovo Legion laptop. I created a bootable USB with Balena Etcher, and it starts normally, but the installer only shows "Erase disk and install" and "Something else." The convenient "Install alongside Windows" option isn't available, even though I used it successfully on another Windows 10 computer recently. I've already disabled BitLocker and Fast Startup, but the option still doesn't appear. What should I check before manually partitioning the drive?
4 Answers
There are a few things worth checking. Make sure BitLocker is fully decrypted, not merely paused, by running manage-bde -status from an administrator PowerShell window. You can also disable hibernation with powercfg /h off. Lenovo Legion systems may use Intel RST or RAID mode, which can prevent Linux from seeing the Windows installation; switching to AHCI may help, but research the safe Windows procedure first because changing storage modes incorrectly can stop Windows from booting. Secure Boot can also be tested by temporarily disabling it.
First boot back into Windows and open Disk Management by running diskmgmt.msc. Shrink the main Windows partition to create unallocated space for Mint, then choose “Something else” in the Mint installer and manually select that space. Back up important files before changing partitions.
Disconnect any external drives and check the firmware boot order before starting the installer. In some cases, an extra drive or an unusual boot configuration prevents the installer from recognizing the existing Windows setup correctly.
I fixed the same issue by creating a new partition from within Windows first, using a free partition manager. After that, the Mint installer detected the available space and I could complete the installation without erasing the Windows drive.
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