Dual Booting With Windows
You can install Ubuntu alongside Windows using a shared disk with partitioning.
Step 1: Prepare Windows
- Back up your data (just in case).
- Open Disk Management (Win + X → Disk Management).
- Right-click your main drive (usually C:) → Shrink Volume.
- Free at least 20–50 GB for Ubuntu (recommended).
- Leave the new space unallocated (do not format it).
Step 2: Boot the Ubuntu USB Installer
- Insert the USB and reboot the system
- Enter BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing F2, Del, F12, or Esc during startup)
- Set the USB as the first boot device
- Save changes and reboot
Step 3: Install Ubuntu Alongside Windows
- Select Try or Install Ubuntu
- When prompted for installation type, select: Install Ubuntu alongside Windows Boot Manager
- Use the slider to allocate how much space to give to Ubuntu
- Continue installation as prompted
Step 4: Bootloader Setup
- After installation, you’ll see the GRUB boot menu at startup
- Select between Ubuntu and Windows each time you boot
Fixing Boot Issues
If Windows doesn't show up in the GRUB menu:
sudo os-prober
sudo update-grub
Or use Boot-Repair from a live USB.