I'm looking to set up a dual boot system with Linux on a second SSD while keeping Windows on the first. The second SSD is currently unallocated, and I'm unsure about the best steps to take. I plan to use Linux Mint Mate, as I'd like a similar interface to my Steam Deck, but I want to ensure I can still access Windows for its programs. Should I keep the SSD unallocated for the Linux installation, or is it better to allocate it to Windows first? A simple step-by-step guide would be appreciated!
4 Answers
If you're not sure about the ISO file's integrity, you can usually check it with checksums provided on the download page. It’s good practice! Also, while Linux Mint doesn’t initially come with KDE, you can install it later if you want that interface! Fedora with KDE Plasma is another fantastic option if you want the KDE desktop out of the box.
Customization is definitely possible! Just check out r/unixporn for inspiration. You can customize those distros quite a bit, including themes and layouts. Take your time experimenting and have fun with it!
Here's a simple step-by-step guide based on my experience:
1. Disable fast boot/secure boot in Windows Control Panel (under Power Options).
2. Go to Disk Management and ensure your second SSD is free space.
3. Download BalenaEtcher and burn the Linux Mint ISO onto a USB.
4. Safely remove the USB, shut down, and plug it back in.
5. Enter the BIOS and select the USB as the boot device.
6. You'll boot into the Linux Mint environment. Click 'Install Linux Mint'.
7. Choose 'Manual Partitioning'. You'll need an EFI partition (512 MB), a SWAP partition equal to your RAM size, a ROOT partition (50-100 GB), and the rest for HOME. Use EXT4 for compatibility with Windows if you want to access Linux files from there.
Just remember to double-check everything and research as you go! Good luck!
Thanks for laying out those steps! Quick question—how do I verify the integrity of the ISO file I downloaded?
You don't need to install Windows first; feel free to install Linux directly on that second SSD! Some distributions have different dual boot support, so check the documentation for Linux Mint to make sure you're on the right track. It should help clarify your questions as you go.
Thanks for the tip! I already have Windows set up on the first SSD, so I just need to focus on the Linux installation.
Awesome, I'll look into that! Is it possible to customize Fedora or Kubuntu to look like Windows Vista? I’ve seen some guides on that.