I'm currently using Windows 10 but I'm transitioning to Linux for better security after support for my OS runs out. I started with Linux Mint but switched to Ubuntu a couple of days ago because I need specific software that only runs on Ubuntu. However, I didn't like Ubuntu and decided to uninstall it by removing its partition. Unfortunately, this has corrupted my GRUB menu, and now I can't boot Linux Mint from my USB drive. I've temporarily made Windows 10 my default OS. I tried working with the disk partition and locating the EFI partition, but I can't access it due to security restrictions. I really need help with reinstalling GRUB or installing Linux Mint again without touching my Windows setup. Also, where can I get more assistance? I'm new to Linux. Thanks!
4 Answers
Keep in mind, if your Windows installation is important and you haven't backed it up, I’d recommend against experimental dual boot setups for now. If you have another hard drive available, installing Linux there could save you a lot of hassle!
Just so you know, deleting the Linux partitions doesn’t remove the boot files from the EFI partition. You could boot with a Linux Live USB and use it to explore your EFI partition instead of relying on Windows. Using the `efibootmgr` command from a Live USB could help manage your EFI entries and potentially fix your boot issues. You might want to brush up on how UEFI works—it’s not too complicated once you get the hang of it!
If you're looking to reinstall Linux Mint, just a heads up: you can actually update GRUB from Mint if you get that running. Try executing 'sudo update_grub' from the terminal in Mint. Also, every Ubuntu app usually works on Mint since it's based on it, so you might not need to stick to Ubuntu for ROS2 and Waydroid after all! But if you're determined to wipe and reinstall, make sure to back everything up first. You could also ask for help on forums like Stack Exchange or specific Linux communities to dive deeper.
Waydroid should work fine on Mint too, so maybe give it another shot when you get your setup working again!
Your bootloaders live in a small partition called the EFI System Partition (ESP). Removing an OS just deletes its partition, not the EFI entries. You need to access that ESP and clean up the boot entries. Booting from a Live USB lets you use `efibootmgr` to remove any unnecessary boot entries. Check out this resource for examples: [LinuxBabe guide](https://www.linuxbabe.com/command-line/how-to-use-linux-efibootmgr-examples). That should help!
Yeah, I know you mentioned not wanting to format, so it’ll be tricky. If you have essential files on your drive, consider moving those to another storage device first just to be safe.