How can I reinstall Windows 11 without disrupting my Zorin dual-boot setup?
Asked by
MellowPine42
I need to reinstall Windows 11 after upgrading my second SSD. My computer dual-boots Zorin and Windows, but during the Windows installation, the required reboot sends me straight to the boot-selection screen, which prevents the installation from continuing. I know the usual advice is to install Windows first and Linux afterward, but I would rather avoid rebuilding the whole setup. Would temporarily disconnecting the Zorin SSD be the simplest and safest solution, or could that create boot problems later?
Answers
The safest approach is to disconnect the Zorin SSD before starting the Windows installation. Install Windows with only its target drive connected, then reconnect the Zorin drive afterward. You can select the desired drive from the firmware boot menu, or configure Zorin's bootloader to offer both operating systems.
Reply to this answer
Set Windows as the default boot entry in your firmware settings for the duration of the installation. If your bootloader is handling the menu, you can also configure it to choose Windows by default temporarily. That should let the installer restart without getting stuck at the selection screen.
MellowPine42: If Windows is installed on its own SSD, would it be safer to disable the other storage devices in the firmware settings while installing?
Reply to this answer
Add your answer
Answers are reviewed before publication.
MellowPine42: That sounds like the least confusing option. I just hope reconnecting the Zorin drive afterward doesn't leave the boot setup needing repair.