📎 AI Summary:
The thread discusses concerns about partitioning a D: drive to install Linux, with the original poster highlighting the importance of their data and uncertainties about the process. Respondents advise that Linux installers typically detect Windows installations and that replacing the boot loader with Grub is standard, emphasizing safety if proper steps are followed. The original poster plans to allocate a small partition on a separate drive for a rescue Linux setup, considering this as the best solution over creating a dedicated USB, and seeks confirmation if this approach is suitable. Overall, the tone is informative and cautious, focusing on safe dual-boot setup strategies.
Z

ztplru

Extraordinary Member
Joined
Jul 16, 2014
Messages
61
Thread Author #1
I'm scared of partitioning D: drive to install Linux.
My most important files are backed up in the cloud but have loads of stuff i don't want to loose.

The process went fine for my C: drive which already had windows 7 in it.

Should i expect a similar scenario for my D: drive?
 

Solution
Neemobeer
Ok in that case go into Disk Management and shrink the NTFS (windows partition) down You shouldn't need a ton of space 20-50GB is fine. Leave the space unallocated. In the Mint installer select the unused space. Sata drives in Linux are represented as /dev/sdL where L is a letter a,b,c
Sort by date Sort by votes
Neemobeer

Neemobeer

Windows Forum Team
Staff member
Joined
Jul 4, 2015
Messages
8,995
#2
Yes, most Linux installers detect and respect a Windows install. Your boot loader will get replaced with Grub which is normal and you will be able to select Windows or Linux from the boot menu.
 

Upvote 0 Downvote
Z

ztplru

Extraordinary Member
Joined
Jul 16, 2014
Messages
61
Thread Author #3
Neemobeer said:
Yes, most Linux installers detect and respect a Windows install. Your boot loader will get replaced with Grub which is normal and you will be able to select Windows or Linux from the boot menu.
Click to expand...

In this case D: is a seperate HD with files only; no OS!

Will install Linux MX17. Will see what boot loader it will be...
 

Upvote 0 Downvote
Neemobeer

Neemobeer

Windows Forum Team
Staff member
Joined
Jul 4, 2015
Messages
8,995
#4
Ok in that case go into Disk Management and shrink the NTFS (windows partition) down You shouldn't need a ton of space 20-50GB is fine. Leave the space unallocated. In the Mint installer select the unused space. Sata drives in Linux are represented as /dev/sdL where L is a letter a,b,c
 

Upvote 1 Downvote
Solution
Z

ztplru

Extraordinary Member
Joined
Jul 16, 2014
Messages
61
Thread Author #5
Neemobeer said:
Ok in that case go into Disk Management and shrink the NTFS (windows partition) down You shouldn't need a ton of space 20-50GB is fine. Leave the space unallocated. In the Mint installer select the unused space. Sata drives in Linux are represented as /dev/sdL where L is a letter a,b,c
Click to expand...

Giving MX Linux 5GB. It's doube the minimum requirements!
It'l be a rescue and fix OS only; for windows 7.

For serious stuff i use CentOS! :shades:
 

Upvote 0 Downvote
Neemobeer

Neemobeer

Windows Forum Team
Staff member
Joined
Jul 4, 2015
Messages
8,995
#6
WinRM is more than capable to repair Windows, so having a Linux OS to do it isn't necessary. Your other option would be to create a live Linux USB then you don't run the risk of screwing up your data drive.
 

Upvote 0 Downvote
Z

ztplru

Extraordinary Member
Joined
Jul 16, 2014
Messages
61
Thread Author #7
Neemobeer said:
WinRM is more than capable to repair Windows, so having a Linux OS to do it isn't necessary. Your other option would be to create a live Linux USB then you don't run the risk of screwing up your data drive.
Click to expand...

I thought about this! :)

1) I'm selling the tablet i use to access internet and create live usb's, when i have serious BSOD's.
2) Don't want a USB dedicated for a live OS! Need it for other things!
3) As i only want to have my desktop and no dedicated USB, the best option is a partition on my D: drive with a rescue Linux OS.


Is my 3rd option right?
 

Last edited:
Upvote 0 Downvote
You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar threads

WindowsForum AI
  • Article Article
4 Key Benefits of Partitioning Your Windows PC
Replies
0
Views
841
WindowsForum AI
WindowsForum AI