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Discover how to use the Wubi utility to install Ubuntu within Windows
Q I tried installing Ubuntu from the cover disc on the Ultimate Guide to Linux but it is not offering to install side by side with Windows. The only options are to use the entire disk, which would wipe Windows, or to specify partitions manually.
I’m not happy about changing something so fundamental on my computer without further advice.
Edward Beck
A There have been some reports on the internet of the Ubuntu installer not offering the option to install side by side with Windows.
There does not appear to be a common thread but there is a simple solution. Ubuntu now comes with a utility called Wubi that can install Ubuntu from within Windows.
It creates a special file rather than creating a new partition, so it is easier to uninstall Ubuntu should you change your mind.
The cost is slightly reduced hard disk performance in Ubuntu (Windows is unaffected). In our experience, we have not noticed any difference.
Start Windows as normal and insert the Ubuntu install disc. If the Autorun window appears there should be an option for Wubi.
Otherwise, click on the Start button and then on (My) Computer. Double-click on the icon for the optical drive with the disc in and then on the wubi.exe icon. Left-click on the Install inside Windows button.
Check the installation drive and size, making sure there is enough space left for Windows. Don’t change the Desktop Environment, otherwise Wubi will have to download all the files again. Enter a password for the Ubuntu installation and click on Install.
When the installation has finished, restart the computer and there will be a menu to choose between Windows and Ubuntu. Another advantage to Wubi is that Windows is the default option rather than Ubuntu.
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Uninstalling Wubi
If you installed Ubuntu using Wubi, it should appear in the Add/Remove programs window (Start, Control Panel, Add/Remove programs in XP. Start, type programs and features in Windows 7/vista) If it's windows you are having difficulty getting started try taping the down arrow when the computer starts. It may sound silly, but the countdown timer on the selection menu stops as soon as a key is pressed. This might make it visible if it has been set to only appear for a very short time. Tim
Posted by Tim Smith, 19 Nov 2010
Disaster
I have installed Ubuntu 10:10 alongside windows using the wubi link. At first it gave me the option on start up to use Ubuntu or Windows, which worked fine at first. Now the option to select the system I wish to use has disappeared all together. How to I un-install Ubuntu from my system as I cannot find an option to do so. Any help would be greatly appreciated, Jim.
Posted by Jim Richardson, 17 Nov 2010