Install Windows first or Linux then Windows?

[iunlock]

Everyone I've asked so far said to install windows (8.1 in my case) first then Linux.

I'm wanting to run Linux for browsing over VPN and also to try out the photoshop like program to see what that's all about.

I'm a security junkie and don't like Windows for its intrusive nature, but use it only for gaming and nothing important.

Mint / Cinnamon sounds pretty good...

I'm open to any ideas.

Thanks.

 

[Rhonda the Sly]

Windows then Linux.

If you install Windows first, it won't look for Linux installations and will kill the GRUB bootloader, leaving you with no choice but to re-install it.

 

[pcgeek11]

Ditto ^^^^

Just make sure you read the Linux Installation carefully when it asked what kind of installation you want to do. You do not want to over write the Windows 8.1 installation.

 

[ignatzatsonic]

If possible, put Linux on another totally separate drive and leave the Windows drive unconnected when installing Linux.

That's not a requirement, but can lead to less confusion and aggravation if you have little or no Linux experience. The Linux installers, including Mint, aren't entirely clear on the choices you are presented with during the install.

I've just installed Mint 17.2 Mate edition on a dual boot in the last couple of weeks. No major issues. I've got it looking similar to Windows, but it will take me some time to come to grips with the folder structure.

Good forums here:

http://forums.linuxmint.com/index.php

 

[andy5174]

Windows then Linux.

If you install Windows first, it won't look for Linux installations and will kill the GRUB bootloader, leaving you with no choice but to re-install it.

I believe you meant to say "Windows AFTER Linux".

 

[ArisVer]

...but it will take me some time to come to grips with the folder structure.

Some time measured in months, years. The basic folder structure is very different than Windows. Some good reading below.


This is the older FHS 2.3 and it is well described. I doubt there were too many changes, besides, some folders are flexible (this is what I remember). Also the folder locations may slightly differ between distros.

http://www.pathname.com/fhs/pub/fhs-2.3.pdf


For an introductory reading see what Wikipedia says.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filesystem_Hierarchy_Standard