Step-by-Step Guide to Manually Partition and Install Manjaro alongside Windows in a Dual Boot System

How to Install Manjaro Dual Boot with Manual Partitioning

Installing Manjaro Linux as a dual boot system with manual partitioning can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to have both Windows and Linux on your computer without the hassle of third-party tools. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, ensuring that you have a seamless and trouble-free installation.

Step 1: Prepare Your System

Before you begin, make sure your system meets the following requirements:

1. A computer with a compatible processor.
2. At least 20GB of free space on your hard drive for Manjaro.
3. A USB drive with at least 1GB of space to create a bootable Manjaro installer.
4. A Windows installation on your computer, as we will be using it for dual booting.

Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive

To create a bootable USB drive, you will need a tool like Rufus or balenaEtcher. Follow these steps:

1. Download Rufus or balenaEtcher from their official websites.
2. Insert a USB drive into your computer.
3. Open the tool and select the USB drive from the list of devices.
4. Choose the Manjaro ISO file as the source image.
5. Click “Start” to begin the process. This may take a few minutes.

Step 3: Boot from the USB Drive

Restart your computer and enter the BIOS or UEFI settings to change the boot order. Set the USB drive as the first boot device. Save the changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI settings. Your computer should now boot from the USB drive.

Step 4: Start the Manjaro Installer

Once the Manjaro installer loads, select your preferred language and click “Next.” Choose the “Graphical Installer” option and click “Next” again.

Step 5: Partition Your Hard Drive

This is where the manual partitioning comes into play. Click on the “Manual Partitioning” option to proceed.

1. You will see a list of available drives. Select the drive where you want to install Manjaro (usually your main hard drive).
2. Click on the “+” button to create a new partition.
3. Set the partition type to “Primary.”
4. Enter the desired size for your Manjaro partition (at least 20GB). Make sure to leave enough space for your Windows installation.
5. Click “OK” to create the partition.
6. Repeat the process to create a swap partition. Set the size to 2-4 times the amount of RAM you have, or you can choose the default size.
7. Create a third partition for your /home directory. Set the size to the remaining space on your hard drive.

Step 6: Format and Mount Partitions

Now, format the partitions you have created. Make sure to choose the correct file system for each partition:

1. Format the Manjaro partition with the ext4 file system.
2. Format the swap partition with the swap file system.
3. Format the /home partition with the ext4 file system.

After formatting, mount the partitions by clicking the “Mount” button next to each partition.

Step 7: Install Manjaro

Now that your partitions are ready, click the “Install Now” button. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.

Step 8: Configure Bootloader

Once the installation is complete, you will need to configure the bootloader to enable dual booting. Reboot your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings. Set the boot order to boot from the hard drive where Manjaro is installed.

Step 9: Enjoy Your Dual Boot System

Congratulations! You have successfully installed Manjaro Linux as a dual boot system with manual partitioning. You can now enjoy the benefits of both Windows and Linux on your computer.