Step-by-Step Guide to Dual-Boot Windows 11 and Linux Ubuntu

In recent years, the dual-boot setup has gained traction among tech enthusiasts, allowing users to harness the power of both Windows and Linux operating systems on a single machine. As Windows 11 continues to roll out with new features and enhancements, many users are exploring the possibility of integrating Linux Ubuntu into their computer's architecture. This article will explore the complete process for setting up a dual-boot environment, citing necessary precautions, installation steps, and potential troubleshooting methods for common issues associated with this configuration.

Understanding Dual-Booting​

Dual-booting refers to the practice of installing two different operating systems on a computer, giving users the option to choose which system they wish to boot into upon startup. In this scenario, we'll focus on setting up Windows 11 alongside Linux Ubuntu. This arrangement provides the best of both worlds: Windows for its user-friendly interface and wide application support and Linux Ubuntu for its open-source flexibility and robust software management.

Benefits of Dual-Booting​

• Versatility: Users can take advantage of the unique features provided by both operating systems.
• Performance: Running Linux natively offers improved performance for coding, development environments, and server management when compared to running it from a virtual machine.
• Cost-Effective: With dual-booting, there is no need to invest in separate hardware; one computer can serve dual purposes.

Prerequisites​

Before starting the installation of a dual-boot system, users should ensure they are adequately prepared.

• System Requirements:
• A computer that meets the hardware requirements for both Windows 11 and Linux Ubuntu.
• Minimum of 64 GB of disk space is recommended for both operating systems—30 GB for Windows 11 and 50 GB for Ubuntu.
• Installation Media:
• Installation images for Windows 11 and Linux Ubuntu should be downloaded.
• The version of each operating system must align with the processor's architecture—either 32-bit or 64-bit. To check this, users can right-click the Start button and select “System,” then look for “System Type.”
• Creation of Bootable USB Drives:
• For Windows 11, use the Media Creation Tool available on Microsoft's website.
• For Linux Ubuntu, tools like balenaEtcher can be used, which works on Windows, Mac, and Linux environments.

The Installation Steps​

Step 1: Preparation​

• Download the required installation images for both operating systems.
• Create bootable media using the aforementioned tools, ensuring both USB drives are ready.

Step 2: Configuring the BIOS​

To enable the system to boot from the USB:

• Restart your computer and press the BIOS access key—this is often F2, F10, or Delete, but it can vary by manufacturer.
• Enter the boot settings and configure the USB drive as the primary boot device.
• Save your changes and exit the BIOS setup.

Step 3: Installing Windows 11​

• Insert the Windows 11 USB drive and reboot the system.
• Choose the language and keyboard settings from the startup screen.
• Click "Install now" and follow the prompts.
• When prompted to select a partition, opt for the “Custom” installation and create a new partition for Windows. Users should allocate a minimum of 30 GB for the new partition.
• It’s vital to avoid deletion of existing partitions that contain data or system files. Partitioning Tips:
• When creating the new partition, set the type to Primary and format it as NTFS. Ensure the correct partition is selected before proceeding.

Step 4: Installing Linux Ubuntu​

Once Windows installation is complete:

• Restart the computer with the Ubuntu USB drive inserted.
• Choose the language and select "Install Ubuntu."
• At the installation point, select the "Something else" option which allows for custom installation.
• Configure the installation:
• Choose the partition created previously for Ubuntu and set it to Primary, formatting it as Ext4. Set the mount point to /.
• Additionally, set up a swap partition, which serves as virtual memory, following the rule of keeping it equal to or half the size of the available RAM in the system.

Step 5: Configuring GRUB​

Upon installation of Ubuntu:

• Restart the system. The GRUB bootloader should appear, giving options to select between Windows 11 and Ubuntu.
• If GRUB does not appear, holding the Shift key during startup sometimes forces it to display.
• Should there be no GRUB visibility, manual configuration may be necessary:
• Open the Terminal within Ubuntu and run the command:

  bash sudo nano /etc/default/grub

• Adjust the GRUB_TIMEOUT to set the waiting time before booting the default operating system.
• Enable the GRUB menu by commenting out the GRUB_HIDDEN_TIMEOUT line.
• Save changes, and update GRUB with:

  bash sudo update-grub

Step 6: Testing the Dual Boot​

With GRUB configured:

• Restart your computer once more.
• Select the desired operating system from the GRUB screen.
• If any issues arise while booting, consider using a recovery tool like Boot-Repair. Creating a bootable USB with Boot-Repair can assist in resolving boot-related problems effectively.

Conclusion​

Creating a dual-boot environment with Windows 11 and Linux Ubuntu offers a vast array of possibilities for users desiring flexibility and functionality. While the process entails several steps, careful adherence to the methodologies provided can facilitate a smooth installation. Dual-booting not only enhances user experience by providing the best features from both ecosystems but also serves as a cost-effective solution for those who aim to utilize diverse software capabilities.

Final Remarks​

Having a backup of essential data is crucial before embarking on this journey. Always proceed cautiously and ensure that configurations are double-checked during the installation process. Once successfully set up, enjoy the diverse experiences both Windows and Linux have to offer! Source: How to Dual-Boot Windows 11 and Linux Ubuntu on your PC | Paradise News

 

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So! You’ve got yourself a 2019 MacBook Pro—the all-powerful "Sequoia" version running macOS 15.2—and you’re itching to step into the wild world of Windows Tiny11 without cluttering up your internal storage or relying on Boot Camp. Maybe you want to play games, run certain Windows apps, or just enjoy the breath of fresh air that is a streamlined version of Windows. Whatever the reason, your vision involves a seamless dual-boot system, accessed right from the macOS bootloader, all on an external SSD or NVMe. Sounds dreamy, right? Let’s walk through the journey laid out in the original forum discussion, with added clarity, technical explanations, and sunlight on the darker corners where issues crop up.

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What’s the Deal With Windows Tiny11?​

In case you’re new here, Tiny11 is a slimmed-down, modified version of Windows 11. It removes unnecessary bloatware, delivering a lean and efficient operating system that consumes far fewer resources than its chunky sibling. This clean, nimble version of Windows is particularly appealing for users looking to run a snappy Windows environment on aging or resource-limited hardware—or in quirky configurations, such as external drives on Macs.
But as magical as Tiny11 sounds, it’s not officially sanctioned by Microsoft (read: customization enthusiasts created this). Be cautious if installing it for professional or critical use.

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The Challenge: Where It Gets Tricky​

The original poster (Mic-M4c) set out to install Tiny11 on an external SSD/NVMe connected to their 2019 MacBook Pro. Their goal was to avoid Apple’s built-in Boot Camp Assistant while still achieving dual boot capability—where you can press the Option key during startup to choose between macOS and Windows.
Here are the hurdles they faced:

• Windows Bootloader Does Not Show in the Mac’s boot menu when pressing Option.
• OpenCore Bootloader Issues: Using OpenCore Legacy Patcher (OCLP) to tweak the startup environment also didn’t resolve visibility issues for macOS or Windows icons.
• Secure Boot & SIP Restrictions: macOS’s System Integrity Protection (SIP) and security protocols often obstruct adds like OpenCore or external boot configurations, unless properly disabled or bypassed.

Now, let’s demystify the technical labyrinth and help you cross to the bright side.

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Breaking it Down: Step-by-Step Guide​

1. Pre-Installation Checklist​

Here’s what you need before attempting this daring integration of ecosystems:

• External SSD or NVMe drive: Ensure it’s fast and properly formatted (see below).
• Tiny11 Installation Media: You’ll need to create a bootable USB for installing Windows Tiny11.
• A Backup of Your Mac: Things can go awry when you’re disabling macOS security features. Use Time Machine or your preferred method.
• OpenCore Bootloader: This is optional but may help with bootloader visibility later.
• Patience and Coffee: You’re taming two OSes, and neither likes being cooperative.

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2. Preparing the External Drive​

First and foremost, get your external drive ready for Windows installation. Apple’s macOS likes to be clingy with its drive formatting, so you’ll need to make some tweaks.

• Erase and Format the SSD/NVMe:
• Open Disk Utility in macOS.
• Choose your external drive and click Erase.
• Use the GUID Partition Map scheme with ExFAT format. (ExFAT ensures cross-compatibility with macOS and Windows.)
• Partition the Drive (Optional):
• If you want part of the external drive for macOS storage, leave some unallocated space and partition the rest for Windows.

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3. Creating the Tiny11 Installation Media​

Tiny11, being a custom version of Windows 11, can’t just be downloaded and slapped on a drive directly. You’ll need to create a bootable installer.

• Download the Tiny11 ISO (you’ll know where to look—hint: community forums).
• Use a tool like Rufus (on another Windows machine) or UUByte ISO Editor on your Mac to make a bootable USB thumb drive.

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4. The Crucial Step: Booting and Installing Tiny11​

Here’s where things start to heat up.

• Disable Apple’s SIP (System Integrity Protection):
• Reboot your Mac into Recovery Mode. Hold down Command + R during the restart.
• Open Terminal in Recovery Mode and run:
  

       csrutil disable

• Reboot your Mac.
• Boot From the USB Drive:
• Connect the Tiny11 bootable USB and the external SSD/NVMe to your MacBook Pro.
• Restart the Mac and hold the Option key during boot.
• Select the USB drive from the boot menu.
• Install Windows Tiny11 on External Drive:
• Proceed through the Windows installation wizard as usual.
• During partitioning, select your external SSD/NVMe as the installation destination.
• Let it do its thing.

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5. Making Windows Bootable on Mac’s Startup Menu​

After installation, you’ll notice that pressing the Option key on reboot doesn’t show Windows as a bootable option. This is because macOS doesn’t recognize Microsoft’s bootloader out of the box. To fix this:

• Install OpenCore Bootloader:
• Use OpenCore Legacy Patcher (OCLP) to install a version of OpenCore on your external drive’s EFI partition.
• This effectively acts as a middleman, allowing macOS’s boot environment to see and launch Tiny11.
• Disable Secure Boot:
• Reboot your Mac into Recovery Mode again.
• Open Terminal and tweak the system’s secure boot policies. Command:
  

       spctl kext-consent disable

• Manually Add Windows Bootloader (if needed):
• Use Terminal or an EFI editor to directly point the Mac’s boot manager to the Windows bootloader on your external drive.

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Troubleshooting Common Problems​

• Windows Bootloader Not Visible (Still)? Double-check that OpenCore is correctly installed and recognize your Windows installation in the boot menu.
• MacOS Icons Missing? OpenCore configuration might need a tweak to re-add macOS itself to the boot manager's visibility settings.
• Windows Won’t Boot? It might be a Secure Boot issue. Ensure that legacy boot is enabled in your configuration.
• Installer Freezing on External Drive? Try formatting it to NTFS within the Windows installer.

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Final Notes and Considerations​

What you’ve attempted here—installing Windows Tiny11 on an external SSD while shaking hands with Apple’s tightly-controlled bootloader—was no small feat. But it’s doable, as evidenced by the trials and triumphs of users like Mic-M4c on community forums. OpenCore makes for a solid workaround when macOS restricts dual-booting, but remember: OpenCore is technically a hack designed for unsupported scenarios, so proceed cautiously.
Oh, and one last piece of advice… while Tiny11 is super lightweight, it’s technically a modified Windows distribution, meaning no guarantees of long-term reliability or update support. If that gives pause, consider using a standard Windows 11 installation on your external drive instead.
Happy tinkering, and may your SSD be fast and your boot screens conflict-free!

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Source: MacRumors Forums Install Windows Tiny11 on external SSD/NVMe from a Sequoia MacBook Pro 16" (2019)