I'm a programming enthusiast and I've been coding in C and C++ for school and work. I'm interested in setting up a good Linux distribution, specifically Arch, since I want the freedom to customize it extensively. However, I need to dual boot with Windows for a couple of important reasons: I need it for engineering software like Ansys and SolidWorks, and I also play games like League of Legends, which requires the Vanguard anti-cheat system that only works with secure boot enabled. My question is whether I can enable secure boot just when I want to play League, or can I install Arch Linux while secure boot is enabled from the start? Also, could dual booting Arch and Windows from the same SSD lead to any issues beyond the usual problem where Windows can overwrite the Linux bootloader? I've seen mentions of signing my own keys for secure boot, but I'm unsure what that entails and if it poses any risks to my laptop. Thanks for any advice!
4 Answers
If you're using a specific bootloader, the CachyOS wiki has a setup guide for secure boot that you might find useful. Just remember, when dual booting with Windows, the common issue is that Windows could mess with the Linux bootloader, so be prepared for that challenge!
Generally, Arch requires secure boot to be disabled for installation. However, you can switch back and forth between operating systems and enable secure boot when you want to play games like League of Legends. For secure boot, I'd recommend looking into signing your own keys using sbctl. It's not too complicated and it's safe for your system. You might also want to check out CachyOS; their wiki has a good guide for setting up secure boot more smoothly. Oh, and don’t forget, many of the games you listed can actually run on Linux using tools like Proton or Wine, so dual booting with Windows isn't your only option!
For your gaming list, make sure you also check out games like Ghost of Tsushima and Witcher III! But seriously, consider whether you want to keep supporting companies that are making crazy demands around secure boot and anti-cheat systems. Sometimes it might be better to explore other gaming options that don’t lock you into these restrictive tech!
That's a good point! I didn't think about the broader implications. Maybe it's time to explore alternatives.
From what I know, you won't be able to install Arch while secure boot is enabled. If you're looking for a distro that works seamlessly with secure boot, Fedora is your best bet as it supports it right out of the box. Just make sure to check their setup guides to help you out!
Thanks for the tip! I'll definitely check out the CachyOS wiki for more info.