I'm an experienced Linux user who has been using it mainly for my workflow, gaming, and similar tasks. I've managed to run Windows through a virtual machine, but due to space limitations on my laptop, I'm looking to transition fully to Linux since I rarely need Windows. I'm considering downloading Windows 11 on an external NVMe SSD so I can use it as needed by just plugging it in. Is this feasible, and if so, how can I go about it?
3 Answers
Another option is to consider running the VM directly from the SSD instead of installing Windows separately. However, keep in mind that VM performance can be subpar without GPU passthrough, and if you don't have a spare GPU for that, it might not be the best route for you.
Just a warning, modifying your BIOS settings or disk configurations can be risky. Always back up your important data before making any changes. If you're unsure, the FAQ threads in some support communities can be really helpful!
Yes, you can definitely install Windows 11 on an external NVMe SSD. It's a bit tricky since Microsoft has set up some restrictions on booting Windows from external drives, but tools like WinToUSB can simplify the process for you. Just a heads up, you might run into some challenges during setup, so be prepared for that!
What's WinToUSB? Heard about it but not sure how it works.
Yeah, I get that; I've read VMs can come with some performance issues.