A few months ago, I wrote an article specifically for users who want to transition from Windows to Linux but are being stumped by must-have Windows-only software: What’s Stopping You Transitioning To Linux?
In response to that article, which involved installing Windows & Linux on separate internal drives, a reader posed the question, ‘but what about laptops and/or mini PCs that don’t have the facility to connect two separate internal drives?
It was a darn good question, and I think I have the answer.
Windows & Linux On Laptops
Bearing in mind that I know from first-hand experience that Windows does not play nice with Linux, hence the two separate drives suggestion, we can eliminate setting up two partitions on a single drive. Trust me, that is asking for trouble.
So, after much pondering, I came up with what I consider to be the perfect solution: creating a Windows To Go bootable USB flash drive. There are several methods available for creating a Windows To Go bootable USB flash drive, two of which are explained in How To Create A Windows To Go Bootable USB Drive
So, with Linux installed on the internal drive, once you create your Windows To Go flash drive, you’ll have a copy of Windows on hand at all times, with the added bonus that it is completely portable and can be moved from device to device.
Windows To Go runs in exactly the same manner as if you were booting from an internal drive, only it will be slower, of course. It is also persistent, meaning changes, additions, deletions, etc., are all retained at all times, so your copy is always up-to-date.
Your only investment is a decent USB flash drive. Make sure the capacity is large enough to accommodate Windows and your must-have software. I would suggest a minimum of 128 GB, and stick with a reputable brand with at least USB 3.0 technology.
I actually created a Windows To Go drive using a 128 GB SanDisk Ultra USB 3.0 flash drive and have found it to be surprisingly responsive, with no issues with speed at all.
- You also might like: How To Try Multiple Linux Distros From Single USB Drive
BOTTOM LINE:
Separating Windows and Linux in this manner should eliminate any concerns over Windows playing nice with Linux, and you’ll have Linux for everyday computing with Windows always on hand when required.
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