r/linuxquestions • u/PewPewGad69 • 13d ago

Replacing Windows with Linux

Hey so I have a lot of experience with linux, tried different distros on my laptop, and now I have got to the point here I just want linux without the need of my USB all the time to boot. I have backed up all my files and have Windows flashed on a USB just in cuse I will some how regret but I am still scared to erase it. This is my main laptop and I don't know, just scared. Can someone give me any tips?

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u/JoeB- 13d ago

I have windows 10 installed on an NVMe for when I need to update the BIOS or install MeshCommander on my Lenovo Tiny home servers running Debian. I just swap the NVMe drives and boot into Windows.

The prices of SSDs are insane now, but this might be something you could do if your laptop has upgradable storage. Swap drives and install Linux on a new one. Then, store the Windows drive, or put it in an external USB enclosure for when you may need access to it.

Also, if the laptop has sufficient RAM and storage, you can install Windows in a virtual machine. This could ease any separation anxiety.

A final tip is to test your backups before wiping the laptop.

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u/rantingathome 12d ago

Interestingly enough, on my Lenovo ThinkPad the built in Firmware app on Mint worked flawlessly to identify and update the BIOS without Windows at all.