this post was submitted on 20 Jul 2023
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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).
Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.
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I will write a guide for you via editing so others don't need to after they see this message.
Yes. 1 hard drive is enough. 2 provides you few steps less (as in manual partitioning), but the end result is exactly the same in both scenarions.
I hope your storage drive(s) is ssd and not hdd. If not, I highly recommend to buy at least used ssd (my oldest ssd is from 2010 and still works).
Manual partitioning varies a bit between Linux distros, so google the guide for the distro you want ro install.
Windows overrides and formats the Linux boot partition, so install Windows first and at the partitioning "window" write the amount of storage you want to give for Windows and it handles everything else automaticly. If your Windows is already installed, then shrink your drive with the amount you want to use in Linux. Windows has a tool named Disk Management for shrinking the drive.
In Linux you need at least two partitions; boot (In Linux terms: /boot/uefi) and root (in Linux terms: / ). But like I said, Google/Youtube a guide for your distro of choice.
Have you chosen which distro you'll use? If not, format your biggest usb stick with Ventoy2Disk and it'll be the last time you ever format your usb stick. Just drag and drop any Linux .iso and try them in Live mode without the need to format or install anything before you've chosen which distro you like the most. Linus Tech Tips showed Ventoy2Disk in his latest video.
Try at least Pop_OS! and Linux Mint since they are very beginner friendly distros.
Dual boot isn't the easiest way to start your Linux journey, but I hope you have fun while learning new skills. If you have anything to ask, don't hesitate, just ask.
awesome, thanks so much! I really appreciate it
Oh, I forgot to ask. Do you have Nvidia gpu in your computer?
I do in my desktop, not on my laptop.
Do you have a gpu in your pcie slot or do you use integrated gpu?
Because you have a desktop, I'd recommend to use 2 separate disks. Because if you manage to break the Linux system (it might happen if you heavily tinker/customize your Linux and manage do some mistake) then you can just re-install the Linux and start again.
If you have 2 storage drivers, then unplug the Windows drive when you (put tape and write Windows onto it) are installing the Linux. Then the computer will manage the partitioning automatically, so less work for you.
Don't fear the tinkering/customizing. That's one big joy in Linux, lol. Remember to backup at least your personal files.
My desktop does have a dedicated gpu in my pcie slot. I just assume my laptop has integrated graphics with the board, its an average/below average hp pavilion from around 2018.
I have 2 SSDs in my desktop, with one containing gaming storage and the other being the boot drive. I would prefer to experiment with linux on my laptop though, and I'm pretty sure it only has the 1 TB HDD. However, all sensitive data should be moved from that shortly so that I may have room to tinker/play around with it.
I recommend that you install Linux on the laptop alone! Linux will work on that hdd, but will be slower. If you can, buy an used ssd for it. 256 GB should be enough for a lot. That 1 TB hdd could serve you as a backup disk.
I also recommend to overhaul your laptop. Remove the dust with compressed air and reolace thermal paste (should be done every 2-3 years anyway).