Step-by-Step Guide- How to Install Windows on Ubuntu and Dual Boot Your System
How to Install Windows from Ubuntu
Installing Windows on a computer that already runs Ubuntu can be a challenging task, but with the right steps and tools, it can be done smoothly. This article will guide you through the process of installing Windows from Ubuntu, ensuring that you have a dual-boot system with both operating systems.
1. Prepare Your System
Before you begin, make sure you have the following:
– A Windows installation ISO file: You can download it from the official Microsoft website or use a Windows installation disc.
– A USB flash drive with at least 8GB of space: This will be used to create a Windows installation media.
– A USB flash drive or DVD-RW drive: You will need this to install Windows.
2. Create a Windows Installation Media
To create a Windows installation media, you can use the Rufus tool. Follow these steps:
1. Download Rufus from the official website: https://rufus.ie/.
2. Open Rufus and select your USB flash drive from the “Device” dropdown menu.
3. Click on the “Select” button next to the “Boot selection” dropdown menu and choose the Windows installation ISO file you downloaded earlier.
4. Click on the “Start” button to begin the process. Rufus will format the USB flash drive and copy the Windows installation files to it.
3. Boot from the Windows Installation Media
To boot from the Windows installation media, you will need to change the boot order in your computer’s BIOS or UEFI settings. Follow these steps:
1. Restart your computer and press the key to enter the BIOS or UEFI settings (this key varies depending on your computer’s manufacturer, but it is usually F2, F10, or DEL).
2. Navigate to the “Boot” or “Boot Order” section.
3. Set the USB flash drive as the first boot device.
4. Save your changes and exit the BIOS or UEFI settings.
4. Install Windows
Once your computer boots from the Windows installation media, follow these steps to install Windows:
1. Press any key to start the installation process.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to select your language, time, and keyboard settings.
3. Choose “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)” when prompted.
4. Select the partition where you want to install Windows and click “Next.”
5. Wait for Windows to install and configure your system.
6. Follow the prompts to set up your user account and password.
5. Create a Bootable Ubuntu USB Drive
Now that you have Windows installed, you’ll need to create a bootable Ubuntu USB drive to install Ubuntu alongside Windows. Follow these steps:
1. Download the Ubuntu ISO file from the official Ubuntu website: https://www.ubuntu.com/download/desktop.
2. Use Rufus to create a bootable Ubuntu USB drive, just like you did for the Windows installation media.
3. Boot your computer from the Ubuntu USB drive and follow the on-screen instructions to install Ubuntu.
6. Configure Your Dual-Boot System
After installing Ubuntu, you may need to configure your dual-boot system to ensure both operating systems work correctly. Follow these steps:
1. Restart your computer and enter the BIOS or UEFI settings.
2. Set the USB flash drive as the first boot device and the hard drive as the second boot device.
3. Save your changes and exit the BIOS or UEFI settings.
4. Boot your computer and select the desired operating system from the boot menu.
Congratulations! You have successfully installed Windows from Ubuntu and now have a dual-boot system with both operating systems.