Time to try Linux.

Jaisurya — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 03:03:21 +0000

If you are a pro Windows user, that's fine, but why don't you try an OS that offers more performance, stability, privacy, and security,all for free? If you are convinced, here is how you can try Linux Mint without compromising Windows.

Step 1: The very first thing is to download the ISO file using this link: https://www.linuxmint.com/download.php. You can download different editions. My recommendation is Cinnamon. This will ask for a download mirror; choose any one.

Step 2: Another download you have to make is Rufus. Use this link: https://rufus.ie/en/. This software will make your pendrive into a bootable drive. Download the portable version and install it.
Step 3: Before launching Rufus, insert your pendrive (preferably 8 GB or more). Now launch it.

Step 4: It will automatically detect the pendrive. Your job is to select the ISO file, then click Start. (Note: This will format your pendrive, so be aware before you do it.) Then eject the pendrive.

Step 5: Now go to Disk Management, create a disk partition on the C drive, give enough space for using Linux, and assign any letter to that drive.

Step 6: After that, go to the BIOS settings and disable the Secure Boot option for frictionless Linux booting. Save the option and exit.

Step 7: Restart your PC and go to the boot options by pressing keys like F1 or F9. This will differ for each laptop brand, so find yours.

Step 8: Select the pendrive, and that will boot Linux.

Step 9: Double-click the Install Linux Mint icon to install Linux on your system. After that, you need to select the language and other basic settings. For the installation type, select Install Linux alongside Windows, or select the Something Else option to select the drive you want to install Linux on, and that's it.

Welcome to the Linux community.

Comment your first impression of Linux.

DEV Community: Jaisurya

Time to try Linux.