Dual Boot Windows 7 with Ubuntu | Step-by-Step Guide

Setting Up a Dual Boot System with Ubuntu on Windows 7

If you recently acquired a computer with Windows 7 already installed and desire the flexibility of running Ubuntu Linux alongside it, you can establish a dual boot configuration. This guide details the process of installing Ubuntu on a machine that initially came with Windows 7.

For the purposes of this demonstration, we will utilize Windows 7 Home Premium (32-bit) and Ubuntu 9.10 (32-bit). The goal is to install Ubuntu and configure GRUB as the boot loader for a fundamental dual boot setup.

Initiating the Ubuntu Installation

Begin by inserting the Ubuntu disc into your Windows 7 machine and booting from it. Should you encounter graphical issues during the Ubuntu startup, revert to the initial screen and select "Safe graphics mode" via the F4 key.

Proceed through the installation prompts, carefully selecting your preferred language, time zone, and keyboard layout.

Partitioning for Dual Boot

Upon reaching step 4 of 6, the recommended approach for novice users is to choose "Install them side by side, choosing between them each startup." This option simplifies the partitioning process.

The first bar visually represents your existing Windows 7 partition. Utilize the second bar to adjust the slider, determining the amount of hard drive space allocated to Ubuntu.

The green area signifies the space reserved for Windows 7, while the brown area indicates the space designated for Ubuntu. In our example, we are allocating 10GB to Ubuntu, leaving the remainder for Windows 7.

Confirming Partition Changes

Click "continue" to access the verification dialog box. Review the proposed changes to ensure they align with your expectations.

User Account Configuration

The subsequent step involves creating your user name, setting a password, and configuring your desired login options.

Initiating the Installation Process

If all settings appear correct, proceed by clicking "Install." You retain the ability to revisit and modify settings at this stage if needed.

The installation will commence, displaying a progress bar and highlighting new features within Ubuntu 9.10.

Completing the Installation and Rebooting

The installation duration will vary depending on your system's specifications. Once completed, restart your machine.

Selecting the Operating System

Upon rebooting, the GRUB loader will appear, presenting you with the choice to boot into either Ubuntu or Windows 7.

It's worth noting that, in some instances, Windows 7 may initiate a Check Disk process upon the first boot after installation. This will trigger a reboot, requiring you to select the Windows 7 option again from the bootloader.

Conclusion

This guide provides a straightforward method for establishing a Windows 7 / Ubuntu Linux dual boot environment. While alternative approaches exist, this technique offers a quick and effective solution for those wishing to explore Ubuntu.

This should assist you in beginning to enjoy the benefits of a dual boot configuration, combining the strengths of both Windows 7 and Ubuntu Linux.