Skip to main content

Dual Booting With Windows

You can install Ubuntu alongside Windows using a shared disk with partitioning.

Step 1: Prepare Windows

  1. Back up your data (just in case).
  2. Open Disk Management (Win + X → Disk Management).
  3. Right-click your main drive (usually C:) → Shrink Volume.
  4. Free at least 20–50 GB for Ubuntu (recommended).
  5. Leave the new space unallocated (do not format it).

Step 2: Boot the Ubuntu USB Installer

  1. Insert the USB and reboot the system
  2. Enter BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing F2, Del, F12, or Esc during startup)
  3. Set the USB as the first boot device
  4. Save changes and reboot

Step 3: Install Ubuntu Alongside Windows

  1. Select Try or Install Ubuntu
  2. When prompted for installation type, select: Install Ubuntu alongside Windows Boot Manager
  3. Use the slider to allocate how much space to give to Ubuntu
  4. Continue installation as prompted

Step 4: Bootloader Setup

  1. After installation, you’ll see the GRUB boot menu at startup
  2. 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.