How To Install a Linux Mint Dual Boot With Windows 11 and Secure Boot

Setting up Linux Mint alongside Windows 11 on a single drive is an excellent way to enjoy the strengths of both operating systems on the same PC. In this tutorial and video walkthrough, I demonstrate how to complete the entire dual-boot process while keeping Secure Boot fully enabled, ensuring a safe and modern system configuration.

We begin inside Windows 11 by preparing the drive for Linux Mint dual boot. This involves shrinking the existing Windows partition to create unallocated space that Mint can use during installation. The video explains how much room to set aside, what Windows disk-management tools to use, and how to confirm that the changes have been applied correctly.

From there, we move into your computer’s UEFI firmware. This step includes checking Secure Boot status, adjusting the boot order, and ensuring that the system is ready to install a second operating system without disrupting your existing Windows setup. Because Secure Boot stays enabled throughout the entire process, this guide is ideal for users who want to retain system integrity and avoid disabling important security features.

During installation, Linux Mint detects the existing Windows Boot Manager and offers the option to install Mint alongside it. I walk through selecting the proper installation mode, choosing the available free space, and allowing the installer to configure the EFI system partition and GRUB bootloader automatically.

Once installation is complete, we restart the system and verify that the GRUB menu correctly lists both Linux Mint and Windows 11. We also review a few key post-installation checks to ensure that Secure Boot remains active, updates are installed properly, and both operating systems boot exactly as they should. Whether you’re exploring Linux for the first time or building a flexible dual-OS workflow, this guide provides a clear, safe, and secure method to run Linux Mint and Windows 11 together on a single drive.

The post Linux Mint Dual Boot on Windows 11 – One-Drive Install Guide appeared first on tektoc.

With So Many Linux Distributions Out There….How Do You Choose?

If you’ve ever thought about switching to Linux, you’ve probably discovered that the hardest part isn’t the installation—it’s choosing which Linux distribution to install. With over 600 options, the choice can feel overwhelming, especially if you are looking for the best Linux for beginners.

In this guide, we’ll break down the three main Linux families to help you make sense of it all.

Arch-based distributions (like Manjaro or SteamOS) deliver cutting-edge updates and customization options but require more technical knowledge. They’re ideal for users who love tinkering and don’t mind occasional troubleshooting.

Fedora-based distributions (such as Nobara and Ultramarine) are backed by Red Hat and balance modern features with reliability. They’re a solid choice for professionals and developers who want up-to-date software.

Debian-based distributions (including Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and Zorin OS) emphasize stability, ease of use, and community support. They’re perfect for beginners and those seeking a dependable everyday system.

Once you know which category fits your style, consider your goals. Do you want something that looks and feels like Windows? Linux Mint or Zorin OS might be your best bet. Are you more interested in learning the ins and outs of Linux? Ubuntu or Fedora are great places to start.

Finally, test your shortlist! Run Linux live from a USB drive and check hardware compatibility, speed, and usability.

Remember: there’s no single “best” Linux distribution—only the best one for you.

Check out the video above for a more in-depth look at selecting the best Linux distribution for you!

NOTE: some corrections have been made to the video since it was first published:

2:25 As mentioned by a number of viewers, Fedora is, in fact, strongly oriented toward open-source software as opposed to proprietary software. Sorry for the confusion on that.

12:25 As viewer @privacyvalued4134 has pointed out, when testing Linux on a thumb drive the OS is loaded into memory, so you only need a thumb drive big enough for the ISO. This ALSO means that any applications you install or files you save will not persist after shutdown/restart, so keep your PC running until your testing session is done.

The post How to Choose the Right Linux Distribution | Best Linux for Beginners Explained appeared first on tektoc.

Make the Most of What You’ve Got

In today’s tech world, Microsoft and many others will tell you that if your PC can’t run Windows 11, it’s basically useless junk. But is that really true? We’re about to find out with my late father’s computer: a Dell Inspiron 580 with a first-generation Core i3 550 processor, built all the way back in 2010. This machine is almost 15 years old and has just 6GB of RAM and integrated graphics. It’s the kind of old PC you’ll find at a thrift store or recycling center, probably gathering dust.

While many of us hobbyists are chasing the latest CPUs and GPUs, some people have little to no money for technology. For them, a machine like this could be a total game-changer, providing access to essential tech for school, work, and connecting with others. Organizations like the Electronics Recycling Association are doing incredible work to bridge this gap, but the push to make older computers obsolete just makes their job harder.

To prove that this old PC is far from useless, we’re giving it a second chance. We’ve installed a small SSD and put Linux Mint on it, and now we’re going to put it through its paces. Can it handle everyday tasks like browsing the web, watching HD videos, using an office suite, editing photos, and even a Zoom call?

We’re going to test if this so-called “garbage computer” can actually be brilliant. Find out if this old PC is ready for the scrap heap or if it still has a lot to offer and can do some real good for a family in need. Stick around to see the results and learn why we should all think twice before tossing out perfectly good technology.

The post Old PCs are Useless, Right? My Late Father’s 1st Gen Core i3 Says Otherwise appeared first on tektoc.