Windows Won't Boot - M.2 SSD: Installing Ubuntu Server on a Separate SSD
In this article, we will discuss the process of installing Ubuntu Server on a separate M.2 SSD, specifically the WD WDS250G2B0A, while the Windows M.2 SSD (WD BLACK SN770 2TB) continues to function without issues. The focus is on ensuring a smooth installation process, covering key concepts, and providing detailed instructions.
Preparing for the Installation
Before installing Ubuntu Server on a separate M.2 SSD, it is essential to prepare the system for the installation. This involves creating a bootable USB drive with the Ubuntu Server ISO file and ensuring that the system is configured to boot from the USB drive.
Creating a Bootable USB Drive
To create a bootable USB drive, you will need a USB drive with at least 4GB of storage, the Ubuntu Server ISO file, and a tool to write the ISO file to the USB drive. There are several tools available for this purpose, including Rufus, UNetbootin, and Etcher.
// Example usage of Rufus to create a bootable USB drive
1. Download and install Rufus from the official website
2. Insert the USB drive into the computer
3. Open Rufus and select the USB drive
4. Click on the CD-ROM icon and browse to the Ubuntu Server ISO file
5. Click on Start to write the ISO file to the USB drive
Configuring the System to Boot from the USB Drive
To configure the system to boot from the USB drive, you will need to access the system's BIOS or UEFI settings. The process for accessing these settings varies depending on the system manufacturer, but it usually involves pressing a specific key (such as F2, F10, or ESC) during the system startup.
// Example BIOS/UEFI settings for configuring the system to boot from the USB drive
1. Restart the system
2. Press the key to access the BIOS/UEFI settings (e.g., F2)
3. Navigate to the Boot Order or Boot Options menu
4. Move the USB drive to the top of the boot order
5. Save and exit the BIOS/UEFI settings
Installing Ubuntu Server on the Separate M.2 SSD
Once the system is prepared, you can proceed with the installation of Ubuntu Server on the separate M.2 SSD. The following steps outline the installation process:
Booting from the USB Drive
Insert the bootable USB drive into the system and restart the system. The system should boot from the USB drive and display the Ubuntu Server installation screen.
Selecting the Installation Type
During the installation process, you will be prompted to select the installation type. To install Ubuntu Server on the separate M.2 SSD, choose the "Something else" option.
Partitioning the M.2 SSD
After selecting the "Something else" option, you will be presented with a screen that allows you to partition the M.2 SSD. To ensure a smooth installation process, it is recommended to create a separate partition for the root file system and the swap space.
// Example partitioning scheme for the M.2 SSD
1. Select the M.2 SSD and click on the "+" button to create a new partition
2. Set the size of the root file system partition (e.g., 20GB)
3. Set the file system type to ext4
4. Set the mount point to "/"
5. Click on the "+" button to create a new partition for the swap space
6. Set the size of the swap space partition (e.g., 2GB)
7. Set the file system type to swap
Completing the Installation
Once the M.2 SSD is partitioned, you can proceed with the installation of Ubuntu Server. The installation process involves setting the system's language, keyboard layout, time zone, and user account.
- Prepare the system for the installation by creating a bootable USB drive and configuring the system to boot from the USB drive.
- Partition the M.2 SSD into separate partitions for the root file system and the swap space.
- Complete the installation of Ubuntu Server on the separate M.2 SSD.
References
- Ubuntu Server Installation Guide: https://ubuntu.com/server/docs/installation
- Rufus Download Page: https://rufus.ie/
- UNetbootin Download Page: https://unetbootin.github.io/
- Etcher Download Page: https://www.balena.io/etcher/