Hello Everyone,

I have a Windows laptop that I want to run Linux on. Due to the drivers being encrypted (on install, from the factory), I can’t repartition the drive and dual boot.

My plan is to run a live install from a USB stick. I’ve tried a live Debian ISO, and it works fine for my purposes (WebDev).

However, the live install isn’t persistent, and doesn’t use all the space on the 64gb usb stick for storage.

There are tutorials online that show how to make a live install while already running Linux, but for some reason, the live install doesn’t see anything plugged into the other usb slots.

So, my question is, how do I get a persistent, usable version of Debian on a USB stick from Windows?

Thanks,

-BX

Edit: Laptop is a HP Envy, with touchscreen. The reason for keeping windows is that (as of yet) I have not found a way to use the touch-screen/pen combo with Linux. Being able to boot off USB will allow me to test solutions without losing what works

  • oats
    2•1 year ago

    You go to install the debian live install on another usb and point installation to the desired usb? I think that should do it and you will have a persistent debian install.

    If you are planning to use this for the long term there maybe a few better options, because the usb will die very quickly if you use it to run your os.

    • Use an external ssd, you can get a case for m.2 ssd use that with a m.2 ssd. They are the most compact after a usb drive.

    • Use external HDD, while slower it’s also an option.

    • WSL? This is something.

    • Assuming by drivers you mean drive, backup all data on your drive, format drive, ensure drive no longer encrypted, install windows and Linux.