Beginners Guide to Install Ubuntu Alongside Windows 10

If you’ve been curious about trying Linux but don’t want to ditch Windows completely, installing Ubuntu alongside Windows 10 is the perfect solution. This process, known as dual-booting, lets you choose between Ubuntu and Windows every time you start your computer.

Follow this beginner-friendly guide to set it up safely and smoothly.

Before You Begin

1. Check Your System Requirements

Windows 10 installed on your PC
Minimum 25 GB free space for Ubuntu
USB drive (at least 8 GB)
Internet connection

Also check your system’s boot and partition type — this affects how you’ll install Ubuntu:

If your system uses Legacy BIOS instead of UEFI, you should follow this alternative guide:

How to Install Ubuntu Along With Windows Legacy BIOS Systems

2. Back Up Your Data

Mistakes are rare, but it’s always smart to back up important files before making system changes.

Step 1: Download Ubuntu

Go to the official Ubuntu website.
Download the latest Ubuntu Desktop ISO file (most users should pick the LTS version for long-term stability).

Step 2: Create a Bootable USB

You’ll need software to write the Ubuntu ISO to your USB stick. Popular options:

Rufus (Windows)
balenaEtcher (cross-platform)

In Rufus:

Plug in your USB drive.
Open Rufus and select your USB device.
Choose the Ubuntu ISO file you downloaded.
Click Start and wait until the process finishes.

Step 3: Prepare Windows for Dual Boot

Press Windows + R → type diskmgmt.msc → press Enter.
In Disk Management, right-click your main drive (usually C:) and select Shrink Volume.
Reduce the volume by at least 25 GB (more if you want space for files and programs in Ubuntu).
You’ll now see Unallocated space — this is where Ubuntu will be installed.

Step 4: Boot From the USB

Restart your PC and press your BIOS/UEFI key (usually F2, F12, DEL, or ESC — check your manufacturer’s guide).
In the boot menu, select your USB drive.
Choose Try or Install Ubuntu.

Step 5: Install Ubuntu Alongside Windows

When the Ubuntu installer loads, select Install Ubuntu.
On the “Installation type” screen, choose Install Ubuntu alongside Windows Boot Manager.
If prompted, adjust the space you want for Ubuntu.
Click Install Now → Continue.

Step 6: Complete Setup

Select your time zone, keyboard layout, and create a username/password.
Wait for the installation to finish.
When done, remove the USB stick and restart your computer.

Step 7: Choose Your OS at Startup

When your PC boots, you’ll see the GRUB boot menu:

Use arrow keys to select Ubuntu or Windows Boot Manager.
Press Enter to start your chosen OS.

Tips After Installation

Update Ubuntu: Open the terminal and run:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
Access Windows files in Ubuntu: Your Windows partitions will appear in the file manager.
Customize GRUB menu: Use the grub-customizer tool if you want to change boot order or timeout.

Final Thoughts

Dual-booting Ubuntu with Windows 10 is a safe, flexible way to explore Linux without giving up your existing setup. You get the best of both worlds — Ubuntu for development, security, and customization, and Windows for apps and games you can’t live without.

If you run into trouble, the Ubuntu community forums are incredibly helpful.

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!