Installing Ubuntu on separate HDD (Drive H:) for dual boot with Windows 11 on SSD
02:35 02 Apr 2026

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This is my drive status on DiskGenius.
I am currently using Windows 11, which is installed on my SSD. I have a separate HDD with an empty partition (Drive H:), and I would like to install Ubuntu on that HDD to set up a dual boot system with Windows 11.

My goal is:

  • Keep Windows 11 on the SSD

  • Install Ubuntu on the HDD (Drive H:)

  • Be able to choose the operating system at boot (dual boot)

I would like guidance on the correct installation steps to avoid overwriting Windows or the SSD bootloader.

Some specific questions:

  1. During Ubuntu installation, which installation type should I choose?

  2. Should I manually create partitions on Drive H: before installing?

  3. Where should I install the GRUB bootloader — on the SSD or the HDD?

  4. Is there any risk that Ubuntu installation will overwrite the Windows bootloader?

I would appreciate step-by-step guidance to safely install Ubuntu on the HDD while keeping Windows 11 intact.

Thank you.

linux ubuntu operating-system windows-11