Have you ever wanted to break free from the Windows ecosystem and see what Linux is all about? Installing Ubuntu on a Windows 10 PC makes exploring open-source software safe, easy and low commitment.
In this beginner‘s guide, we‘ll cover everything you need to know to dual boot Ubuntu 20.04 LTS alongside Windows 10:
Why Ubuntu?
Before we dig into the installation process, let‘s discuss what makes Ubuntu such an appealing Linux distribution to try on a Windows machine:
Security
With virus and malware threats constanty evolving to target Windows, Ubuntu provides a more locked-down computing environment. According to research firm Adguard, Linux distributions had 6 times fewer malware infections in 2020 compared to Windows 10.
Speed
The lightweight Ubuntu operating system consumes fewer system resources than Windows 10, giving your computer a performance and responsiveness boost. Benchmark tests show 30-40% faster boot times and application launch speeds.
Customization
The open-source nature of Ubuntu allows extreme levels of tweaking and personalization that Windows 10 restricts in the name of security and stability. From desktop themes and layouts to system-level configurations, you‘re in full control.
Dual booting Ubuntu grants this added flexibility and security without losing access to your Windows ecosystem.
Prerequisites
Before installing Ubuntu 20.04 LTS, verify that your Windows 10 PC meets the minimum requirements:
| Component | Minimum Specification | Recommended Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 10 version 2004 | Windows 10 Pro 64-bit 2004 |
| Available Storage | 25GB free space | >100GB free space |
| RAM | 4GB | 8GB |
| Processor | 2GHz dual-core | 2.5GHz quad-core |
Next, assemble the files and tools needed:
- Ubuntu 20.04 LTS ISO – Download the disk image (.ISO format) containing the Ubuntu installer here.
- balenaEtcher – Install this free app for creating bootable USB flash drive installers here.
- 8GB or larger USB stick – This will be formatted and contain boot files for Ubuntu. Back up any important data before using it as your installer drive.
Step-by-Step Dual Boot Install
Once you have the needed files prepped, the hands-on installation process takes about 30 minutes. We‘ll walk through it together:
1. Insert your USB drive and launch balenaEtcher. Click "Select Image" and browse to your downloaded Ubuntu ISO file.
2. Select your USB drive letter under "Select Target" in balenaEtcher. This will be permanently erased and formatted.
3. Click "Flash" and wait for the Ubuntu files to copy over. Once complete, safely eject the drive.
4. Configure your PC‘s one time boot menu to point to the insertion USB drive first in boot order. Refer to your motherboard manual for the exact keyboard shortcut.
5. Insert the USB drive and power on your PC. You should see the Ubuntu splash screen instead of Windows. Choose your language and click "Install Ubuntu."
6. Pick "Erase disk and install Ubuntu" to fully replace Windows or "Something Else" to manually configure partition resizing for dual boot.
7. Follow the remaining prompts to choose security preferences, time zone, and create your main Ubuntu user profile. Click "Reboot" when done.
Once you successfully install Ubuntu alongside Windows, you‘ll be able to choose which operating system you boot into each time. This grants you the perfect way to dip your toes into the Linux environment while maintaining access to all your Windows applications and data.
We‘ve only scratched the surface of all the possibilities and customizations Ubuntu enables. For any other beginner topic questions around using Ubuntu or Linux in general, don‘t hesitate to ask!
