How to Install Ubuntu on Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / November 3, 2025

Do you want to try out Ubuntu without giving up Windows 10? You’re not alone. Many people love Windows for its compatibility but crave the power, flexibility, and open-source nature of Ubuntu. The good news is—you can enjoy both operating systems on the same computer.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to install Ubuntu on Windows 10 safely and easily. Whether you want to dual-boot Ubuntu alongside Windows 10 or install it using Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), we’ve got you covered.

Let’s dive in!

🧠 What Is Ubuntu?

Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux distributions, known for being user-friendly, free, and open-source. It’s developed by Canonical Ltd. and offers a clean interface, strong security, and support for thousands of software applications.

Many developers, students, and IT professionals prefer Ubuntu for tasks like:

  • Software development

  • Ethical hacking and penetration testing

  • Running servers

  • Learning Linux fundamentals

💡 Why Install Ubuntu on Windows 10?

Before we jump into installation steps, let’s discuss why you might want Ubuntu on your Windows 10 PC.

1. Get the Best of Both Worlds

Dual-booting Ubuntu with Windows 10 lets you enjoy Linux flexibility without giving up your favorite Windows programs.

2. Learn Linux Safely

Ubuntu is perfect for beginners who want to explore Linux without fully switching from Windows.

3. Use Open-Source Tools

Access powerful tools like Python, Git, Docker, and Vim right from Ubuntu.

4. Faster Performance

Linux often runs faster and smoother, especially on older hardware.

⚙️ Ways to Install Ubuntu on Windows 10

There are two main methods to install Ubuntu on Windows 10:

Method Description Difficulty
Method 1: Dual Boot Installs Ubuntu alongside Windows 10, letting you choose your OS at startup. Moderate
Method 2: WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux) Runs Ubuntu inside Windows without partitioning your hard drive. Easy

We’ll cover both methods below.

🧩 Method 1: How to Install Ubuntu on Windows 10 Using Dual Boot

This is the traditional method—installing Ubuntu alongside Windows. It requires creating a bootable USB and partitioning your hard drive.

🪄 Step 1: Download the Ubuntu ISO File

  1. Go to the official Ubuntu download page.

  2. Choose the latest LTS (Long-Term Support) version for better stability.

  3. Download the .iso file (around 3 GB).

💾 Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive

You’ll need:

  • A USB drive (at least 8 GB).

  • A tool like Rufus or BalenaEtcher.

Here’s how to create the bootable USB using Rufus:

  1. Download and install Rufus from rufus.ie.

  2. Insert your USB drive.

  3. Open Rufus and select:

    • Device: Your USB drive

    • Boot selection: Ubuntu ISO file

    • Partition scheme: GPT (for UEFI systems) or MBR (for BIOS)

  4. Click Start and wait for Rufus to finish.

🧰 Step 3: Prepare Your Windows 10 PC

Before installing, make a few adjustments.

  1. Backup your important files.
    Installing Ubuntu involves partitioning your drive, so it’s smart to back up your data.

  2. Free up space for Ubuntu:

    • Open Disk Management (press Windows + X → “Disk Management”).

    • Right-click on your C: drive → “Shrink Volume.”

    • Create at least 25–50 GB of free space.

  3. Disable Fast Startup and Secure Boot:

    • Go to Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do.

    • Click “Change settings that are currently unavailable.”

    • Uncheck “Turn on fast startup.”

    • Reboot into BIOS and disable Secure Boot if enabled.

💿 Step 4: Boot from USB Drive

  1. Insert your Ubuntu bootable USB.

  2. Restart your PC.

  3. Press the boot menu key (usually F12, F2, ESC, or DEL).

  4. Select the USB drive and press Enter.

🪟 Step 5: Try or Install Ubuntu

After booting, you’ll see the Ubuntu welcome screen with two options:

  • Try Ubuntu – Test it without installing.

  • Install Ubuntu – Start installation.

Click Install Ubuntu to begin.

⚙️ Step 6: Set Up Installation Type

When prompted:

  1. Choose “Install Ubuntu alongside Windows Boot Manager”.

  2. Adjust the partition size if needed.

  3. Click Install Now and confirm changes.

Ubuntu will automatically create partitions for:

  • Root (/)

  • Swap

  • Home (optional)

🌍 Step 7: Configure Ubuntu Settings

  1. Select your time zone.

  2. Choose your keyboard layout.

  3. Enter your name, username, and password.

Then click Continue to start the installation process.

⏳ Step 8: Wait for Installation to Complete

The process can take 15–30 minutes depending on your system. Once done, you’ll see a message:

“Installation complete. Remove installation media and press Enter.”

Remove the USB drive and reboot your PC.

🚀 Step 9: Choose Your OS at Startup

After rebooting, you’ll see the GRUB bootloader.
Select:

  • Ubuntu – to boot into Linux.

  • Windows Boot Manager – to return to Windows 10.

Congratulations! You now have a dual-boot system.

🧮 Method 2: How to Install Ubuntu on Windows 10 Using WSL (No USB Required)

If you don’t want to partition your hard drive, this is the best method.
Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) allows you to run Ubuntu inside Windows 10 just like an app.

💻 Step 1: Enable WSL on Windows 10

  1. Press Windows + X → select Windows PowerShell (Admin).

  2. Enter this command:

    dism.exe /online /enable-feature /featurename:Microsoft-Windows-Subsystem-Linux /all /norestart

  3. Then enable the Virtual Machine feature:

    dism.exe /online /enable-feature /featurename:VirtualMachinePlatform /all /norestart

  4. Restart your PC.

🧩 Step 2: Install Ubuntu from Microsoft Store

  1. Open the Microsoft Store.

  2. Search for “Ubuntu.”

  3. Choose your preferred version (e.g., Ubuntu 22.04 LTS).

  4. Click Get → Install.

🧠 Step 3: Set Up Ubuntu in WSL

After installation:

  1. Open Ubuntu from the Start menu.

  2. It will initialize for the first time.

  3. When prompted, create a username and password.

That’s it! You now have Ubuntu running inside Windows.

🧰 Step 4: Update and Upgrade Ubuntu

Run the following commands to keep Ubuntu updated:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

You can now install Linux tools, packages, and even run servers directly from Windows.

🔍 Dual Boot vs. WSL: Which Should You Choose?

Feature Dual Boot WSL
Performance Full hardware access Limited (depends on system resources)
Installation Complexity Moderate Very easy
Ideal For Developers, Linux enthusiasts Beginners, casual users
Disk Partitioning Required Not required
Switch Between OS Requires reboot Instant (inside Windows)

Recommendation:
If you want full Linux performance—go for dual boot.
If you just want Linux tools inside Windows—use WSL.

🧹 Optional: Remove Ubuntu from Windows 10

If you change your mind later, you can remove Ubuntu safely.

To remove dual boot Ubuntu:

  1. Boot into Windows 10.

  2. Open Disk Management → Delete Ubuntu partitions.

  3. Restore the space to your Windows partition.

  4. Repair your bootloader:

    • Boot from a Windows installation media.

    • Choose Repair your computer > Command Prompt.

    • Run:

      bootrec /fixmbr
      bootrec /fixboot

To uninstall WSL Ubuntu:

  1. Open PowerShell (Admin).

  2. Run:

    wsl --unregister Ubuntu

💡 Tips for Using Ubuntu Effectively

  • Use apt to install software (e.g., sudo apt install vlc).

  • Keep your system updated regularly.

  • Try customizing your desktop environment with GNOME extensions.

  • Install Synaptic Package Manager for easy software browsing.

  • Learn basic Linux commands to navigate efficiently.

🧭 Common Problems and Fixes

❓ Ubuntu Doesn’t Show on Boot Menu

  • Go to BIOS and ensure Ubuntu drive is set as primary boot option.

  • Or run boot-repair tool from a live USB.

❓ Can’t Connect to Wi-Fi

  • Use Additional Drivers under “Software & Updates” to install proprietary drivers.

❓ WSL Ubuntu Doesn’t Start

  • Reinstall WSL using PowerShell:

    wsl --install

🧩 FAQs About Installing Ubuntu on Windows 10

1. Can I install Ubuntu without deleting Windows 10?

Yes! You can install Ubuntu alongside Windows 10 (dual boot) or use WSL to run it inside Windows.

2. How much space does Ubuntu need?

At least 25 GB is recommended for a smooth experience.

3. Is Ubuntu safe to install?

Absolutely. It’s open-source, secure, and doesn’t interfere with your Windows files when installed correctly.

4. Can I uninstall Ubuntu later?

Yes, both WSL and dual-boot Ubuntu can be removed without affecting Windows.

5. What’s the easiest way to try Ubuntu?

The easiest way is through WSL, since you can install and remove it like a normal Windows app.

✅ Conclusion

Installing Ubuntu on Windows 10 is easier than ever. Whether you prefer the dual-boot method for full Linux performance or the WSL approach for convenience, you can switch between operating systems effortlessly.

Ubuntu opens the door to a world of open-source power, speed, and customization. So don’t wait—try Ubuntu today and unleash the best of both worlds!

🧾 Summary: Key Takeaways

Step Action
1 Download Ubuntu ISO or get it from the Microsoft Store
2 Create a bootable USB (for dual boot) or enable WSL
3 Partition your drive if dual-booting
4 Install Ubuntu alongside Windows or through WSL
5 Enjoy using Linux and Windows on one PC!

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