Elementary OS is a relatively newer Linux distribution which is quickly becoming very popular as it provides a very streamlined user interface. It is based on another very popular flavor of Linux – Ubuntu. If you have ever used macOS, then you will find yourself right at home because Elementary OS offers a macOS like desktop experience. Even the desktop wallpapers look similar to the ones you will find on macOS.
If you already have Windows 10 installed on your PC then you can also use the popular Elementary OS Linux on it too. It is very easy to do because Elementary OS offers installation alongside Windows operating system.
Here is how you can install Elementary OS in dual boot configuration with Windows 10:
- Optional, but the sake of safety, the first thing you should do is make a backup of your Windows system partition using Macrium Reflect.
- Next thing you have to do is download Elementary OS ISO from https://elementary.io/.
- Download Rufus from https://rufus.ie/ and use it to create a bootable USB install media for Elementary OS.
- Plug-in the bootable USB media to your PC, reboot it. At the next boot, press F12 to select the USB media as the boot device. You should be able to boot into Elementary OS live.
- When asked, choose to Install elementary on your PC.
- It will automatically detect Windows installed on your hard drive and display various options. Choose the option labelled Install elementary alongside Windows boot manager.
- On the next screen, you will have to choose the target storage drive on which you want to install Elementary OS. You can also choose the partition space for installing Elementary OS by dragging the middle line. You should ensure that enough space is given to both Windows and Elementary OS. After making the appropriate settings, click on the Install Now button to start the installation.
- Wait for the copying of files, installation of system, and then restart the PC. You will now be able to make a choice between Windows and Elementary OS.