If you want to run Ubuntu alongside Windows 11, you’re in luck. It’s pretty straightforward. By creating a dual-boot setup, you can choose to start your computer with either operating system. Just follow these steps: make space on your hard drive, create a bootable USB drive, and install Ubuntu. Let’s dive in!
How to Install Ubuntu on Windows 11
Installing Ubuntu alongside Windows 11 creates a dual-boot setup, allowing you to switch between Windows and Ubuntu when starting your computer. Follow these steps to get it done:
Step 1: Backup Your Data
Before making any changes, back up important files.
It’s always a good idea to have a copy of your important files. Though this process is safe, better safe than sorry, right?
Step 2: Create Space on Your Hard Drive
Shrink your Windows partition to free up space for Ubuntu.
Go to your Disk Management tool on Windows. Right-click the Windows partition, select “Shrink Volume,” then specify the amount of space to free up (20GB should be enough).
Step 3: Create a Bootable USB Drive
Download Ubuntu and create a bootable USB drive.
Head over to the Ubuntu website to download the ISO file. Use software like Rufus to create a bootable USB.
Step 4: Boot from USB Drive
Restart your computer and boot from the USB drive.
Plug in your USB drive, restart your computer, and press the key to enter the boot menu (typically F12, F2, or DEL). Choose to boot from the USB drive.
Step 5: Install Ubuntu
Follow the on-screen instructions to install Ubuntu.
When you reach the installation type screen, select “Install Ubuntu alongside Windows Boot Manager.” Follow the prompts and let the installer do its thing.
Step 6: Reboot and Choose OS
After installation, reboot your computer and choose between Windows 11 and Ubuntu.
You’ll now see a GRUB menu at startup where you can select which operating system to boot into.
After you complete these steps, you’ll have a dual-boot system with both Windows 11 and Ubuntu. Each time you start your computer, you can choose which OS to use.
Tips for How to Install Ubuntu on Windows 11
- Make sure you have at least 20GB of free space on your hard drive.
- Keep your USB stick handy for troubleshooting.
- Update both operating systems regularly to avoid compatibility issues.
- Familiarize yourself with the GRUB menu – it’s the gateway to your dual-boot system.
- Check for updated drivers for Ubuntu to ensure all your hardware works smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a separate partition for Ubuntu?
Yes, Ubuntu needs its own partition to install properly.
Is it safe to install Ubuntu alongside Windows 11?
Yes, following the steps correctly will ensure a safe installation.
What if I want to remove Ubuntu later?
You can use Disk Management on Windows to delete the Ubuntu partitions and then fix the bootloader.
Can I access my Windows files from Ubuntu?
Yes, Ubuntu can read and write to NTFS (Windows) partitions.
Will installing Ubuntu affect my Windows performance?
No, dual-booting will not affect the performance of either operating system.
Summary
- Backup your data.
- Create space on your hard drive.
- Create a bootable USB drive.
- Boot from the USB drive.
- Install Ubuntu.
- Reboot and choose OS.
Conclusion
Setting up a dual-boot system with Ubuntu and Windows 11 can seem tricky, but it’s manageable with a bit of patience. The beauty of this setup lies in the flexibility it offers—whether you want to tinker in a Linux environment or stick with familiar Windows territory, you’ve got options.
Becoming comfortable with both operating systems can open a lot of doors, from work opportunities to personal projects. And remember, it’s all part of the learning curve. If you hit a snag, there’s a whole community of Ubuntu users ready to lend a hand.
So, go ahead and dive into the world of dual-booting. Your future tech-savvy self will thank you! Further, if you’d like to delve deeper into Linux, consider exploring forums and guides tailored for Ubuntu beginners. Happy computing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.