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In this article, we will learn how to install Zorin OS on Windows PC (Dual-Boot Setup). We will be using the Zorin PRO ISO file (Version: 17.1).
In today’s digital world, having a flexible and efficient operating system can significantly enhance productivity, security, and overall computing experience. While Windows remains a dominant choice for many users, Linux-based operating systems like Zorin OS offer a refreshing alternative, combining stunning aesthetics, unmatched customization, and rock-solid stability.
Why Choose Zorin OS Alongside Windows?
But why should you install Zorin OS on Windows in a dual-boot setup? Here’s why:
- Best of Both Worlds: Keep Windows for gaming or proprietary software while enjoying Zorin OS for its speed, security, and open-source ecosystem.
- No Compromise on Performance: Unlike running a virtual machine, dual-booting ensures full hardware utilization for both OSes.
- Windows-like Familiarity: Zorin OS offers a Windows-inspired layout, making the transition seamless for beginners.
- Privacy & Security: Unlike Windows, Zorin OS doesn’t track user activity, providing a bloatware-free, ad-free experience.
- Revive Older Hardware: Zorin OS runs smoothly even on older PCs where Windows may struggle.
Whether you’re a developer, creative professional, or everyday user, dual-booting Zorin OS and Windows gives you the freedom to switch between systems at startup. Let’s dive in and install Zorin OS on Windows PC.
Install Zorin OS on Windows PC: Prerequisites
Before proceeding, ensure you have:
✔ A Backup of Important Data – While the installation is generally safe, backing up critical files is always recommended.
✔ Storage: 15 GB (Core), 32 GB (Education), or 40 GB (Pro)
✔ A USB Flash Drive (8 GB+ Recommended) – For creating a bootable installer.
✔ Downloaded Zorin OS ISO – Download Zorin OS ISO from our website.
✔ Disabled Fast Startup & Secure Boot (Optional but Recommended) – Helps avoid boot conflicts.
✔ CPU: 1 GHz Dual Core – Intel/AMD 64-bit processor
✔ RAM: 1½ GB
✔ Storage: 15 GB (Core), 32 GB (Education), or 40 GB (Pro)
For this guide on How to Install Zorin OS on Windows PC (Dual-Boot Setup), I am using the Zorin OS Pro 17.1 and below are my system specifications:
Step 1: Create a Bootable USB Drive for Zorin OS
To install Zorin OS on Windows, you’ll need a bootable USB drive. Here’s how:
- Download BalenaEtcher or Rufus (Free USB flashing tools).
- Once downloaded, insert your USB drive (all data will be erased).
- Click on SELECT under BOOT SELECTION and attach your Zorin OS ISO.
- Click on START. Under ISOHybrid image detected, select Write in DD Image mode and click on Ok.
- Eject the USB safely once the process completes.
Step 2: Partition Your Hard Drive for Zorin OS (Without Losing Windows Data)
Since we’re dual-booting, we need to allocate free space for Zorin OS without deleting Windows. We will be using the Windows Disk Management tool to create a partition for Zorin OS.
- Click on Start and search for Partition. Then select Create and format hard disk partitions.
- Right-click the main drive (whichever drive has at least 40 GB of free space) and click Shrink Volume.
- Allocate at least 40 GB (50 GB+ recommended) and click Shrink to create unallocated space.
- Leave this allocated space as it is. We will be using this disk space to install Zorin OS on Windows.
Step 3: Boot from the USB and Start Zorin OS Installation
- Restart your PC and enter the BIOS (usually F12, ESC, F2, or DEL).
- Click on Boot. Under Boot Option Priorities, click on Boot Option #1 and then select your USB drive. You need to make sure that your first boot priority is your USB drive.
- Once done, click on Save and Exit, and then click on Save and Exit Setup. Click on Yes to restart your PC.
- Once rebooted, you will directly boot into Zorin OS Live Environment.
- Choose Try or Install Zorin OS to test it before installing.
Step 4: Install Zorin OS on Windows (Dual-Boot Setup)
- Wait for a few filesystem checks, or you can also press Ctrl+C to skip the checks.
- Once the checks are complete, you will see the Welcome screen. If you want to test Zorin OS, you can select Try Zorin OS. For complete installation, click on Install Zorin OS.
- Select your Keyboard Layout and click on Continue.
- Now select, I don’t want to connect to Wi-fi network right now and click on Continue.
- Under Updates and Other Software, keep everything as default and click on Continue.
- Under Installation Type, select Something Else for manual partitioning and click on Continue.
- Click on Free Space (which we left as unallocated: ~40 GB)
- Click on the + icon, and then you will see the Create Partition pop-up.
- Keep:
Size: as default
Type for the new partition: Primary
Location for the new partition: Beginning of this space
Use as: Ex14 journaling file system
Mount point: /
- Select Bootloader Location (Usually
/dev/sda). It will be your default hard disk.
- Once everything is done, click on the Install Now button.
- Confirm writing changes to the disk and click on Continue.
- Select your timezone and click on Continue.
- Create your user account by typing in your Full name, username, and password. Once done, click on Continue.
- Now wait for the Complete Installation. It will take around 7-8 Minutes.
- Once the installation is complete, click on the Restart Now button when prompted.
Step 5: Post-Installation Setup
After rebooting:
- You will see this screen: Please remove the installation media, then press ENTER. Here, remove your bootable USB drive and press Enter to continue.
- After another reboot, you will see the GRUB Bootloader, here you can choose between Windows & Zorin OS. Select Zorin and press Enter.
- Congratulations! You have successfully installed Zorin OS on your Windows PC.
- Open Terminal from Start and type the following command:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
This will update all your Linux headers and update all the packages to the latest version.
- To Update Zorin OS (
Software Updater). Open Settings, click on About, and then click on Software Updates.
- To Install Additional Drivers (if needed), you can click on Software on the bottom taskbar.
- To Customize Zorin Appearance (Windows/macOS-like layouts). Click on Start, and then search for Zorin Appearance.
You can choose between Linux, Windows, or MAC style.
Complete Video Tutorial
Conclusion: Enjoy the Best of Both Worlds with Zorin OS & Windows
By following this guide, you’ve successfully set up a dual-boot system with Zorin OS and Windows, giving you the flexibility to switch between a fast, privacy-focused Linux OS and a familiar Windows environment.
Why Stick with Zorin OS?
✅ Sleek, Windows-like UI (with macOS & other layouts).
✅ Pre-loaded with essential apps (LibreOffice, GIMP, Firefox).
✅ Better performance & security than Windows.
✅ No forced updates or bloatware.
Whether you’re a Windows user looking for a Linux alternative, a developer needing a stable OS, or just someone who wants more control over their PC, Zorin OS is an excellent choice.
Ready to make the switch? Download Zorin OS today and experience the best of both worlds!
Install Zorin OS on Windows PC: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I remove Zorin OS later if I don’t like it?
Yes! Just boot into Windows, delete Zorin partitions via Disk Management, and repair the Windows bootloader by changing your Boot Order in BIOS.
Q2: Will dual-booting slow down my PC?
No. Both OSes run independently, so performance remains unaffected.
Q3: Can I access Windows files from Zorin OS?
Yes! Zorin OS can read/write to NTFS (Windows) partitions by default.
Q4: Is Zorin OS good for gaming?
Yes, with Steam Proton & Wine, many Windows games work. However, for maximum compatibility, dual-booting is ideal.
Now that you know how to install Zorin OS on Windows (dual-boot), why wait? Transform your PC into a powerful, versatile machine today! 🚀