Multi-boot configuration guide for FydeOS and other operating systems

Last Updated: 2023-06-18

Note: This guide is intended for users who have a basic understanding of various operating systems. If you find the content difficult to follow, consider seeking help from a friend or visiting the FydeOS Community for support.

0. Preparation

This tutorial is designed for those who wish to install FydeOS as a secondary system on a device that already has a functioning primary operating system.

System Requirements

A 64-bit PC with UEFI support and UEFI booting capabilities.
A primary operating system that is functioning normally (macOS, Windows, or a Linux distribution).
A GPT-partitioned hard disk with at least 10GB of available space.
FydeOS for PC version 5.3 or later.

1. Allocating Disk Space for FydeOS

To install FydeOS, you will need at least 10GB of free space on a primary partition. The steps below will guide you through this process for different operating systems.

1.1. Windows System (Windows 10 Example)

To create a new partition on Windows 10, follow these steps:

Search for the Computer Management application.
In the Computer Management window, navigate to "Storage" > "Disk Management". This opens the built-in Disk Management tool.
If you only have one primary partition (usually the C: drive) and sufficient free space, shrink this partition to create space for FydeOS. Right-click the primary partition and select "Shrink Volume".
In the Shrink dialog box, specify the amount of space to shrink in MB. We recommend allocating at least 20GB (20,480MB) for FydeOS. Choose a size that differs from your primary partition for easier identification. Click "Shrink" when ready.
The Disk Management tool now shows the newly unallocated space. Right-click this unallocated space and select "New Simple Volume".
In the New Simple Volume Wizard, leave the volume size as default.
Choose "Do not assign a drive letter or drive path" when prompted.
Leave the partition format settings as default.
After completing these steps, Disk Management will create your new partition. You are now ready to install FydeOS.

1.2. macOS 11 Big Sur

To create a new partition on macOS:

Open Disk Utility, found in the Utilities folder or Launchpad.
Click the "Partition" button. In the resulting dialogue, macOS will suggest creating a new "APFS volume" within an existing "APFS container". Since we need to modify the partition table to install a new OS, select "Add Partition" instead.
Click the "+" below the partition layout, then specify the name, format, and size for the new partition. We recommend selecting "Mac OS Extended (Journaled)" for the format and allocating at least 20GB for FydeOS. Choose a unique size to make the new partition easier to identify.
Click "Apply". Disk Utility will summarise the changes for your review. If everything is correct, click "Partition".
Disk Utility may take some time to create the partition. Once complete, click "Done". Your new partition for FydeOS is now ready.

1.3. Linux

If you use Linux, you may not require further instructions.

2. Boot FydeOS from a USB Drive

Follow the steps outlined in this guide to load FydeOS onto your USB storage device and use it to boot the system. The welcome screen will guide you through the basic setup process, ensuring that FydeOS runs smoothly on your device without major compatibility issues.

3. Install FydeOS on a Separate Partition Using the "Installer" App

After accessing the FydeOS desktop and maintaining an internet connection for a few minutes, FydeOS will automatically download and install essential components, including the "FydeOS Web Store". Launch the "FydeOS Web Store" from the app launcher. In the store, find the "Installer" app and click "Add to FydeOS" to install it:
When the FydeOS installer launches, choose the "Dual-boot installation" option:
In the "Select System Partition" section at the top left, choose the desired disk from the "Disk" dropdown menu. The installer will automatically disable the option for the USB storage device running FydeOS. In the example below, nvme0n1 is the target disk, and the remaining nvme0n1** is an additional partition that can be disregarded:
Choose the desired partition from the "Partition" dropdown menu in the "Select System Partition" section at the top right. The installer will automatically determine the partition size. Double-check that it matches the correct target partition created earlier. Note: Ensure the target partition is correct, as this step will erase all data on it. If unsure, do not proceed.
Next, select the EFI partition. The EFI partition’s disk should match the system partition’s disk. In the "EFI Partition" section, the installer will automatically identify the EFI partition and disable invalid options.
If your system lacks a multi-OS boot manager, we've provided rEFInd for your convenience. Enable the "Install rEFInd" option, and the installer will guide you through the boot manager's installation and configuration.
Click "Install". The installation app will prompt for confirmation. After verifying the information, click "OK" to proceed:
While the installation script runs, you'll see progress updates. Depending on your disk's speed, the process may take some time—up to 30 minutes:
Once installation is complete, click "Restart". Congratulations—you have successfully installed FydeOS!

Switching the Operating System

If you've followed the installation steps correctly, your device will display the rEFInd operating system selection screen upon reboot. Use your keyboard to select the operating system you wish to use. For convenience, we've added icons to FydeOS. If you don't make a selection, rEFInd will default to the last chosen operating system after a few seconds.

If you opted not to install rEFInd or previously installed another boot manager, you’ll need to configure it manually.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the installation take?

The installation process usually takes around 15 to 30 minutes, depending on your device's performance, especially the speed of your storage drive.

Will this affect my primary operating system?

The installation process is designed to be non-destructive to your primary operating system as long as you carefully follow the instructions and select the correct partition. However, it's always a good idea to back up important data before making any changes to your disk.

What if I encounter issues during the installation?

If you encounter any issues during the installation, consider the following steps:

Double-check the partition settings in the installer to ensure you selected the correct partitions.
Make sure your system meets the hardware requirements for FydeOS.
Ensure your USB drive is functioning correctly and contains the FydeOS installation files.
Visit the FydeOS Community for further support.

Can I uninstall FydeOS if I no longer want to use it?

Yes, you can uninstall FydeOS by removing the FydeOS partition and restoring your bootloader to its original state. You can do this through your primary operating system's disk management tools. If you installed rEFInd, you'll need to remove it as well.

How do I update FydeOS?

FydeOS updates are handled through the system itself. You'll receive notifications for system updates, and you can install them directly from the FydeOS interface. It's recommended to keep your system updated for the latest features and security patches.

Can I install additional software on FydeOS?

Yes, FydeOS allows you to install additional software through its app store and by using the Linux subsystem. You can also sideload Android apps if the Android subsystem is enabled.

Is FydeOS secure?

FydeOS is built with security in mind, using multiple layers of protection to safeguard your data. Regular updates help ensure that security vulnerabilities are addressed promptly.

Can I use FydeOS for gaming?

FydeOS is capable of running Android games and Linux-based games through its respective subsystems. However, the gaming experience may vary depending on your device's hardware.