How to Safely Dual Boot Linux and Windows on Separate Drives?
Asked by
TechieJoe42
Hey folks! I've got a desktop setup where I'm currently running Linux (specifically CachyOS) on one NVMe drive (nvme1) along with my bootloader (systemd-boot). I also have another NVMe drive (nvme0) for Steam games. Now, I've got this SATA drive (sda) where I'm thinking of installing Windows for a few specific applications that aren't working on Linux.
I'll likely only need Windows occasionally and plan to use my motherboard's boot menu to select the Windows bootloader whenever I need it, keeping my Linux bootloader as the default.
However, I'm a bit hesitant. I've heard that the Windows installer can be a bit problematic and might end up messing with my Linux bootloader. As long as I ensure to install Windows on the SATA drive, it shouldn't cause any issues, right? I've read that a lot of people recommend disconnecting the other drives during installation, but unplugging NVMe drives is a bit of a hassle for me.
I know it's a bit of a tricky situation with Windows being what it is, but what do you think the chances are that the Windows installation will overwrite or interfere with my systemd-boot setup? Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Answers
Honestly, there’s a good chance that Windows might mess with your bootloader. A lot of times, it just can’t resist trying to overwrite existing boot entries. I’d recommend unplugging other drives during installation just to stay safe, even if it’s a pain. Better safe than sorry!
Reply to this answer
I'd say it's about a 50-50 split. Windows usually recognizes there's a bootloader there, but it might still try to put its own bootloader in the existing EFI partition, which can cause some issues down the line. If you're feeling adventurous, you can give it a shot, but just be prepared to fix your bootloaders if needed afterwards!
Reply to this answer
Add your answer
Answers are reviewed before publication.
QuickReply12: Definitely keep an eye on that—having the Windows bootloader on a different drive can lead to some weird problems later!