Want to learn Linux but can't give up Windows 11? You don't have to choose! In this video, I walk you through the safest method to Dual Boot Windows 11 and Linux (Ubuntu/Mint) on a single laptop. We cover everything from safely resizing partitions to configuring BIOS and fixing common GRUB issues.
Phase 1: Safety & Preparation (Crucial)
Before doing anything, back up your important data. Messing with partitions always carries a small risk.
1. Disable BitLocker / Device Encryption
Go to Settings > Privacy & security > Device encryption.
If it is On, switch it to Off.
Note: This decryption process can take 30+ minutes. Wait for it to finish completely.
2. Disable Fast Startup
Open Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Power Options.
Click "Choose what the power buttons do".
Click "Change settings that are currently unavailable" (requires admin rights).
Uncheck "Turn on fast startup" and click Save changes.
3. Create Free Space for Linux It is safer to shrink your Windows partition using Windows tools rather than the Linux installer.
Right-click the Start button and select Disk Management.
Right-click your main drive (C:) and select Shrink Volume.
Enter the amount of space (in MB) you want for Linux.
Recommendation: At least 40,000 MB (40 GB), but 60 GB+ is better if you plan to install many apps.
Click Shrink.
You will now see a black bar labeled "Unallocated." Leave this alone; the Linux installer will use it.
Phase 2: Create the Installation Media
You need a USB stick (8GB or larger) and the "ISO" file of the Linux version you want (e.g., Ubuntu or Linux Mint).
Download Linux:
Ubuntu 24.04 LTS Linux Mint 22
Download Rufus: Get it from
rufus.ie Flash the Drive:
Plug in your USB stick.
Open Rufus.
Select your USB stick under "Device".
Click SELECT and choose the Linux ISO file you downloaded.
Click START. (Accept any prompts to download updates or write in "ISO mode").
Phase 3: BIOS/UEFI Settings
Restart your computer and immediately press the BIOS key repeatedly (usually F2, F10, F12, or Del, depending on your laptop brand)
Disable Secure Boot (Optional but Recommended):
Modern Linux (Ubuntu/Mint) can work with Secure Boot, but it often causes headaches with Wi-Fi or Graphics drivers later. Disabling it in the BIOS "Security" or "Boot" tab makes the process smoother for beginners.
Change Boot Order:
Move your USB Drive to the top of the boot priority list.
Save changes and Exit (usually F10).
Phase 4: The Installation
Your computer should now boot into a menu asking if you want to "Try" or "Install" Linux. Select "Try" first to test if your Wi-Fi and sound work. If they do, double-click the "Install" icon on the desktop.
Welcome Screen: Choose your language and keyboard layout.
Updates: Connect to Wi-Fi and check the box "Install third-party software for graphics and Wi-Fi hardware".
This is critical for proprietary drivers. Installation Type (The Important Part):
The installer should detect Windows. Look for the option: "Install Ubuntu/Linux Mint alongside Windows Boot Manager".
Select this option. It will automatically find the "Unallocated" space you created in Phase 1 and install Linux there.
Warning: If you do not see the "Install alongside" option, do not proceed. Abort and check if BitLocker was fully disabled.
Finish: Follow the prompts to create your username and password.
When finished, remove the USB stick and restart.
Phase 5: Dual Booting
Every time you turn on your computer now, you will see a black screen with white text called GRUB.
Select Ubuntu (or Linux Mint) to use Linux.
Select Windows Boot Manager to use Windows 11.
Troubleshooting Tip: If your computer boots straight into Windows after installation, you need to go back into your BIOS (F2/F12/Del) and change the "Boot Order" so that Ubuntu/Linux is the first priority, not "Windows Boot Manager."
Next Step: Would you like me to help you choose between Ubuntu and Linux Mint based on your specific laptop specs, or do you need help verifying if your drive is encrypted?
