A safe, step-by-step guide to trying Linux without replacing Windows.
Introduction
This Linux Start Guide is written for people who want to extend the life of their computer without taking unnecessary risks.
It is designed especially for non-technical users, older PCs, and anyone who feels cautious about changing how their computer works. You do not need prior Linux experience, and you do not need to decide anything upfront.
The core idea is simple:
You can try Linux safely first, and only install it once you’re confident.
When you do decide to install, Linux is set up separately from Windows, so your original system remains available and unchanged.
Throughout this guide, Windows is left untouched unless you explicitly choose otherwise. Nothing happens automatically, and there is no pressure to continue beyond any step.
If you are curious about Linux but want a careful, realistic path, this guide is for you.
How This Guide Is Organized
This guide is divided into Modes.
Each Mode is a self-contained part of the process, with a clear goal and a natural stopping point. You can complete one Mode and stop, or continue later at your own pace.
The Modes build gradually:
- Mode 1 prepares a USB so Linux can be tried safely
- Mode 2 lets you test Linux without installing it
- Mode 3 explains your installation options and helps you choose a safe path
- Mode 4 walks through installing Linux step by step
- Mode 5 focuses on first-time setup and everyday use
You do not need to complete every Mode. Many people stop after testing Linux, and that is perfectly fine.
When you reach the installation stage, the guide supports two valid approaches:
- Installing Linux alongside Windows on the internal drive (dual boot)
- Installing Linux on an external SSD
Both options follow the same basic process, and the guide clearly explains where they differ so you can make an informed choice.
Before moving forward, each Mode explains exactly what will – and will not – change on your computer. Nothing happens automatically, and there is always a clear point where you can stop.
Prepare a USB so you can safely try Linux in the next step.
This mode walks through downloading Linux Mint and creating a bootable USB using a simple tool called Balena Etcher. Nothing is installed to your computer’s operating system. Windows is not changed, and this step can be completed without committing to anything further.
Start Linux temporarily from the USB to see how it works on your computer.
Linux runs directly from the USB, without installing or changing anything. This mode lets you check basic compatibility such as Wi-Fi, sound, display, and general performance before deciding whether to continue.
Decide how Linux will be installed on your computer, safely and intentionally.
This mode explains the two supported ways to install Linux:
- Installing Linux alongside Windows on the internal drive (dual boot)
- Installing Linux on an external SSD, keeping it physically separate
You’ll learn how each option works, what stays unchanged, and what differences matter in practice. No installation happens in this mode – it simply helps you choose the approach that best fits your situation before moving on.
👉 Read this mode before installing Linux.
Follow clear, step-by-step instructions to install Linux using the option you chose in Mode 3.
This mode walks through the installation process slowly and carefully, explaining each screen and choice before you make it. The steps and screenshots are taken from a real, everyday PC similar to the systems this guide is written for – not a specialized or high-end setup.
You’ll see exactly:
- How the installer identifies disks and partitions
- How to verify where Linux will be installed
- What each step does before you continue
Nothing is assumed, and no changes are made automatically without your confirmation. If anything feels unclear, you can pause, go back, or stop entirely.
By the end of this mode, Linux will be installed using the approach you selected in Mode 3.
Learn the basics of daily Linux use after installation.
This mode covers the essential concepts that replace familiar Windows habits: how software is installed, how updates work, and how the Linux desktop is organized. It also includes setting up language input (such as Japanese IME), so you can type naturally in your preferred language from day one. These steps use built-in tools like the Software Manager and do not require terminal commands.
By the end of this mode, Linux should feel comfortable and usable for normal daily tasks.