Learn how to download and install Zorin OS Lite alongside your Windows operating system. Experience the power and flexibility of Zorin OS Lite without sacrificing your existing setup. Follow our step-by-step guide and explore the world of Linux today!
How to Download and Install Zorin OS Lite Along with Windows
Without further ado, let’s get started with the dual boot process. That is, when you turn on your computer it will give the option to start Zorin OS Lite or Windows .
- You can download Zorin OS Lite from the official page: https://zorinos.com/download/.
- It will ask you to choose between 64 bit and 32 bit depending on your system. To find out which one suits you, you should do a simple check: Go to the search bar and type “cmd”, this will open the command prompt. Write “systeminfo”, in the results look for the value “Processor” if the value is “PC based on x64” , then you must install 64 bits or also the 32 bits.
- Plug the USB drive into the computer and run “Rufus or Yumi . ” Select the Zorin OS Lite image you downloaded. Rufus should automatically select the USB drive, but make sure you’ve selected the correct drive. Click on “Accept” and wait for the process to finish.
- Plug in the USB drive and restart your computer.
- As soon as the motherboard logo appears when starting your computer (BIOS), press the boot key. Which can be the function key «F10 or F12» depending on your computer. On the home screen to choose boot media, the system will give you to choose between the USB device manager or Windows. You have to select the USB drive and press “Enter.”
- When you boot from the USB drive , you will be presented with the menu: select “Try or Install Zorin OS” . Select “Install Zorin Os” . When prompted, connect to the Internet to ensure that all necessary software is downloaded during the installation process. Install the 3d party software and click “Continue.” These programs will be needed later and will enhance your Linux experience.
- The next thing is that you must select “Install next to Windows” . And then press «Next» to choose the space you want to allocate to the Zorin Os on your hard drive. Although Zorin OS can be installed in less than 10 Gb of space. We recommend having 30 to 40 Gb of space available for you to store all the files you will download.
- Upon reboot you should see the Zorin OS boot on next startup. This completes the installation process along with Windows on your computer.
Creating a guide in a tabular format for downloading and installing Zorin OS Lite alongside Windows is a detailed process. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown in a simplified tabular format:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. System Requirements Check | Ensure your computer meets the minimum system requirements for Zorin OS Lite. |
| 2. Backup Important Data | Backup all important data on your Windows system to avoid any loss during installation. |
| 3. Download Zorin OS Lite | Visit the official Zorin OS website and download the Lite version. |
| 4. Create Bootable USB | Use a tool like Rufus or BalenaEtcher to create a bootable USB drive with the Zorin OS Lite ISO file. |
| 5. Partition Windows Drive | Shrink the Windows partition to create free space for Zorin OS Lite using Windows Disk Management. |
| 6. Boot from USB | Restart your computer and boot from the USB drive containing Zorin OS Lite. |
| 7. Install Zorin OS Lite | Choose “Install Zorin OS” and follow the installation instructions. Select “Something else” when asked about partitioning. |
| 8. Partition for Zorin OS | Use the free space created earlier to make a new partition for Zorin OS Lite. |
| 9. Proceed with Installation | Complete the installation by following the on-screen instructions. |
| 10. Boot Manager (GRUB) | GRUB will be installed, allowing you to choose between Windows and Zorin OS Lite at startup. |
| 11. First Boot into Zorin OS Lite | After installation, restart your computer and choose Zorin OS Lite from the boot menu to start using it. |
| 12. System Updates | Once logged in, check for system updates to ensure your Zorin OS Lite is up to date. |
Remember, dual-booting can be complex and might cause issues if not done correctly. It’s advised to be familiar with partitioning and boot processes. If you’re not comfortable with the process, seeking assistance from someone experienced or thorough online guides is recommended.
If you are not sure about installing Zorin OS Lite, when asked “Install Zorin OS Lite or try Zorin”, select “Try Zorin” . The system will boot into USB mode and you can use Zorin OS Lite without installing it. Everything you do in this mode will be erased after restarting. But this will give you an idea if you like Zorin or not. We await your comment, suggestion and that you share this post.
Congratulations! You have successfully downloaded and installed Zorin OS Lite alongside your Windows operating system. Now you can enjoy the sleek and powerful features of Zorin OS Lite while keeping the familiarity of Windows. Feel free to explore the vast world of Linux and take advantage of the numerous benefits it offers
