Step-by-Step Guide- How to Install Linux OS on Windows 10 for Seamless Dual-Boot Experience

How to Install Linux OS on Windows 10

Are you looking to enhance your Windows 10 experience by adding a touch of Linux to your system? Installing Linux on Windows 10 is a great way to enjoy the benefits of both operating systems without the need for a dual-boot setup. In this article, we will guide you through the process of installing Linux OS on Windows 10 using the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). Let’s get started!

1. Check System Requirements

Before you begin, ensure that your Windows 10 system meets the following requirements:

– Windows 10 version 1903 or higher
– Windows Update must be enabled
– Virtualization must be enabled in your system’s BIOS

2. Enable Virtualization

To enable virtualization, follow these steps:

1. Restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI setup by pressing the appropriate key (e.g., F2, Del, or Esc) during the boot process.
2. Navigate to the “Advanced” or “System” tab.
3. Look for a “Virtualization” or “CPU Virtualization” option and enable it.
4. Save your changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI setup.

3. Install the Windows Subsystem for Linux

To install the Windows Subsystem for Linux, follow these steps:

1. Open PowerShell as Administrator by searching for “PowerShell” in the Start menu, right-clicking on it, and selecting “Run as administrator.”
2. In the PowerShell window, run the following command:

“`powershell
wsl –install
“`

This command will download and install the Windows Subsystem for Linux.

4. Choose a Linux Distribution

Once the installation is complete, you will need to choose a Linux distribution to install. Microsoft provides a list of official distributions, such as Ubuntu, Debian, openSUSE, and Kali Linux, among others. You can find the list and installation instructions on the Microsoft Store.

1. Open the Microsoft Store from the Start menu.
2. Search for your desired Linux distribution.
3. Click on the distribution and select “Get” to install it.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

5. Launch and Configure the Linux Distribution

After installing the Linux distribution, you can launch it from the Start menu. The first time you launch it, you will be prompted to create a user account and password.

1. Enter your desired username and password.
2. Once logged in, you can start using your Linux distribution just like you would on a dedicated Linux system.

6. Install Additional Software

To install additional software on your Linux OS, you can use the package manager provided by your distribution. For example, in Ubuntu, you can use the following command to install software:

“`bash
sudo apt-get install package-name
“`

Replace “package-name” with the name of the software you want to install.

7. Enjoy Your Linux OS on Windows 10

Congratulations! You have successfully installed Linux OS on Windows 10 using the Windows Subsystem for Linux. Now you can enjoy the best of both worlds, with the flexibility and power of Linux integrated into your Windows 10 experience. Happy Linuxing!