Dual Boot Setup of Manjaro Linux with Windows & macOS
- Master the process of setting up a triple-boot system with Windows, macOS, and Manjaro Linux, including partitioning, bootloader configuration, and installing operating systems in the correct order.
- Familiarize yourself with essential tweaks for seamless operation, such as system clock synchronization, shared data access, and adjusting power management settings in dual-boot systems.
- Benefit from pro tips and tricks that elevate your triple-boot experience, including optimizing performance on each OS and troubleshooting common dual-boot issues.
Embrace the power of three by dual booting Manjaro Linux with Windows and macOS, and experience the ultimate computing harmony. With Manjaro’s blazing performance and customization, Windows’ vast application support, and macOS’s refined user experience, your machine will truly be a triple threat.
We’ve simplified this complicated setup down into manageable steps, so navigating it is no longer a frightening undertaking.
We’ll walk you through every step of setting up a reliable dual boot system that seamlessly blends Manjaro Linux, Windows, and macOS in this in-depth guide. We’ve got you covered on everything from understanding dual booting to setting up your computer to installing the operating systems and configuring the bootloader. Along the process, we’ll offer expert advice on how to improve performance and address frequent problems.
We’ll start by recapping dual booting, explaining why it’s worthwhile, and discussing some points to think about before committing. We’ll lead you through the partitioning, OS installation, and configuration processes step by step. By the time you finish reading this manual, you’ll be fully prepared to implement triple-booting and maximize the potential of your computer.
Know Your System Inside Out
Before diving into the dual boot setup, it’s crucial to evaluate your machine’s capabilities. Check system requirements for each OS and verify hardware compatibility. For example, macOS typically requires Apple hardware, but resourceful tech enthusiasts have found ways to run it on non-Apple machines through a process called “Hackintoshing.”
Backup, Backup, Backup
In the world of dual booting, a well-organized backup plan is your safety net. To protect your important data, make use of dependable backup programs like macOS Time Machine or Windows Backup. OneDrive, Google Drive, and Dropbox are all excellent choices for cloud storage.
Craft Bootable USB Drives
Ready to kick things off? You’ll need bootable USB drives for each operating system. For Manjaro , use a tool like Rufus or Etcher. For Windows, the Media Creation Tool is your best friend. And for macOS, create a bootable drive using Terminal or third-party tools like DiskMaker X.
Master the Art of Partitioning
Partitioning your hard drive is the foundation of your dual boot system. Follow these steps:
Allocate Space: Each OS requires its own dedicated partition. Consider the applications and files you’ll store on each system, and allocate space accordingly. For instance, 40-50GB for Manjaro, 100GB for Windows, and 80GB for macOS is a good starting point.
Shared Data Partition (optional): Want to access data across all OSes? Set up a shared partition using a file system that all three operating systems can read and write to, such as exFAT or NTFS.
Windows Installation Made Easy
Download the Windows ISO file from the official Microsoft website, and use the Media Cretion Tool to build a bootable USB.
Once that is complete , insert the Windows USB into your machine.
Reboot and access the BIOS/UEFI and modify the boot order.
Select the Windows USB as your primary boot device.
Boot off of the drive, and follow the onscreen instructions. Noting that you will not want to use the full drive for and allow space for the other partition.
Seamless macOS Installation
Use Terminal or a third-party program like DiskMaker X to prepare the macOS bootable drive and insert the macOS bootable USB drive into your computer.
Reboot your machine and hold down the Alt key (Option on Apple keyboards) to access the boot menu.
Select the USB drive to initiate the macOS installation process.
Follow the on-screen instructions, making sure to select the correct partition for macOS.
Manjaro Linux: The Grand Finale
Insert the Manjaro bootable USB drive.
Reboot and access the BIOS/UEFI, selecting the USB drive as the primary boot device.
Save and exit, then choose “Boot with open-source drivers” from the Manjaro boot menu.
Follow the installation process, as we discussed here – making sure to pay good head that you install Majaro on the correct partition.
With all three operating systems installed, you’re well on your way to utilize the power of your triple-boot machine.
The final step? Configuring the bootloader for smooth sailing between your OSes.
Mastering Manjaro’s GRUB Bootloader
By installing Manjaro Linux last, you’ve allowed its bootloader, GRUB, to detect the other operating systems automatically. Let’s now verify and customize this setup for a seamless boot experience.
Boot into Manjaro and open the terminal.
Update GRUB by entering sudo update-grub. This command scans your system and adds any detected operating systems to the bootloader.
Adding Windows and macOS Entries
During the GRUB update, both Windows and macOS should appear as detected entries. If the entries aren’t present, or are incorrect do the following in the terminal:
sudo pacman -S os-prober
sudo os-prober
sudo update-grub
This will install the os-prober package, run it to search for the other OSes, and then update your bootloader (GRUB).
Customizing the Boot Menu (Optional)
Personalize your boot menu for quicker navigation and a touch of style. To modify the GRUB settings:
sudo nano /etc/default/grub
Tweak settings like GRUB_TIMEOUT (boot menu display time) or GRUB_BACKGROUND (custom background image).
Save and exit with Ctrl+X, followed by Y and Enter.
Then refresh Grub after it’s all said and done:
sudo update-grub.
Ace the System Clock Sync
Dealing with multiple operating systems can sometimes cause your system clock out of sync.
Fire up Manjaro and open the terminal.
Just do sudo pacman -S ntp to install ntpd.
Use sudo systemctl enable —now ntpd to enable and launch the NTP service at this time.
Mastering Shared Data Access
Switching between operating systems frequently? Make your life easier by setting up a shared data partition for smooth file access.
Use a file system compatible with all three operating systems to create a new partition (FAT32, exFAT, or NTFS should do the trick).
For macOS, grab a third-party driver like Tuxera NTFS or Paragon NTFS for Mac to support NTFS file systems.
In Manjaro, open the file manager, head to the partition, and add it to your favorites for speedy access.
Master the Boot Options
Managing boot options across a triple-boot system can be a bit tricky. Let’s ensure your boot preferences are in tip-top shape across all operating systems:
Install a bootloader customizer: Boot into Manjaro and fire up the terminal. Type in sudo pacman -S grub-customizer to install Grub Customizer.
Launch Grub Customizer by entering grub-customizer in the terminal. You can manage the boot menu entries for all three operating systems with the aid of this useful utility.
Set the default boot setting: Choose the drop-down menu for your selected default operating system in Grub Customizer’s “General settings” tab.
Change the timeout interval: Change the “timeout” setting to your preference while staying in the “General settings” tab.
With these steps, you’ll have total control over your boot options, making your triple-boot journey smooth and hassle-free.
You have it now! We’ve completed the entire process of putting Windows, macOS, and Manjaro Linux on a triple-boot system. You can enjoy the finest of all three worlds by following the instructions we provided. Be sure to consider the alternatives, like virtual machines, and keep optimization and troubleshooting tips in mind for a seamless experience.
Keep in mind that practice makes perfect. You’ll get better at controlling your systems as you research and experiment with your setup more. When faced with difficulties, don’t be reluctant to seek assistance or participate in online groups. You’ll quickly come to understand that integrating several operating systems opens up a world of limitless possibilities as you continue to hone your talents.
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Published @ 2023-05-09 03:12