How to Install Linux on Windows

Linux is a powerful, open-source operating system that provides security, flexibility, and robust development tools. Installing Linux on Windows allows users to leverage its advanced features without completely switching from Windows.

Whether you want a full Linux experience or a lightweight integration, there are multiple ways to install Linux on Windows.

How to Install Linux on Windows?10

There are several methods to install Linux on Windows 10, depending on your needs:

Using Windows Subsystem for Linux?(WSL)

WSL allows you to run a Linux distribution within Windows 10 without requiring a virtual machine or dual boot setup. Follow these steps to install WSL:

• Open PowerShell as Administrator and run:

wsl --install        

• Restart your computer.
• Open the Microsoft Store and install a Linux distribution like Ubuntu or Debian.
• Launch the installed Linux distribution and complete the setup. Update Linux by running:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y        

Using a Virtual?Machine

• A virtual machine (VM) allows you to run Linux in an isolated environment within Windows.
• Download and install VirtualBox or VMware.
• Download the Linux ISO file from the official distribution website.
• Open VirtualBox or VMware and create a new virtual machine.
• Allocate at least 2GB RAM and 20GB storage.
• Load the Linux ISO and proceed with the installation inside the VM.

How to Install Linux on Windows 10 Dual?Boot

A dual-boot setup allows you to run Linux alongside Windows 10.

• Backup Your Data: Before modifying partitions, create a backup.
• Download a Linux ISO: Choose a Linux distribution like Ubuntu or Fedora.
• Create a Bootable USB: Use Rufus or Balena Etcher to create a bootable USB drive.
• Modify BIOS Settings:
• Disable Secure Boot.
• Enable USB Boot.

Boot from USB: Restart your PC and select the USB from the boot menu.

Install Linux:

• Select “Install alongside Windows.”
• Allocate disk space for Linux.

Set Up GRUB Bootloader: This allows you to choose between Windows and Linux at startup.

Complete Installation: Follow on-screen instructions and restart the system.

How to Install Linux on Windows?11

The installation process for Linux on Windows 11 is similar to Windows 10 but with some enhancements.

Installing Linux via WSL on Windows?11

Windows 11 provides an improved WSL experience with full kernel support.

Open PowerShell as Administrator and run:

wsl --install        

Restart your system.

Install a Linux distribution from the Microsoft Store.

Launch the Linux environment and complete the setup.

Update Linux with:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y        

Installing Linux on Windows 11 via Virtual?Machine

The process remains the same as on Windows 10. Download VirtualBox or VMware, create a virtual machine, and install Linux inside it.

How to Install Linux on Windows 11 Dual?Boot

Dual-booting Linux on Windows 11 follows the same steps as Windows 10.

Backup Your Data: Always back up before making partition changes.

Create a Bootable USB: Download a Linux ISO and create a bootable USB using Rufus.

Modify BIOS Settings:

• Disable Secure Boot.
• Enable USB Boot.

Boot from USB and Install Linux:

• Select “Install alongside Windows.”
• Allocate disk space for Linux.

Configure GRUB Bootloader: This will allow you to choose between Windows 11 and Linux.

Complete Installation: Follow the setup prompts and restart your system.

Conclusion

Installing Linux on Windows provides users with a secure and flexible computing environment. Whether you use WSL, a virtual machine, or a dual-boot setup, Linux enhances your system’s capabilities. Choose the method that best fits your needs and start exploring the power of Linux today!