Post
OK, I have a computer question... I have a mini PC with an M.2 SSD as its main drive running Windows 11.
I would like to take out that drive, put a new one in, and install Linux Mint.
Should that work? Is there anything I need to check first? Is there a realistic chance that swapping the SSDs back would not let me use the PC as it is now again?
1. Secure Boot
Unless you've done something fancy Windows 11 requires Secure Boot. Linux Mint officially supports Secure Boot, but it might depend on the hardware.
I'd recommend trying first with Secure Boot enabled, if that doesn't work just keep in mind to re-enable it if you want to boot back into Windows.
2. Bitlocker
If windows has Bitlocker enabled you'll likely have to enter a recovery key when swapping back.
THINK being the keyword heh
Cause the drive changing, maybe it would ask you from wich drive you want to Boot, after the system recognize the change... you should check if secure Boot is activated for Windows - that can maybe make troubles.. Install Linux Mint with active Secure Boot if it was already activated before.. otherwise i didnt think a reason why it shouldnt work like you want.. but i selfe never try this that way - so im not sure
You might or might not need to adjust the "secure boot" option in the BIOS though. That depends on the hardware if I'm not mistaken.
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