Looking to install Linux Mint 22 on its own disk without interfering with other operating systems? This guide walks you through a clean, standalone setup — perfect for dual-booters or dedicated Linux users.
What “Separate Disk” and “Standalone” Mean
Separate Disk: Linux Mint will be installed on a dedicated disk. This disk will be formatted, so back up any data beforehand.
Standalone: No other OS (like Windows) should be connected during installation. This ensures GRUB installs only on the Linux disk.
If your PC already has Windows, disconnect its disk before starting. After installing Linux Mint, reconnect it — you’ll be able to switch between systems via BIOS/UEFI or the boot menu.
Prepare Your Installation Media
Create a Linux Mint 22 Bootable USB Drive Use a tool like Rufus to create your USB installer. (Refer to the linked article if needed.)
Boot from the USB Drive Insert the USB, restart your PC, and access BIOS/UEFI. Set the boot priority to USB or use the boot menu to select it.
Start the Installation
On boot, select Start Linux Mint. If issues arise, try Compatibility Mode.
Once the desktop loads, click Install Linux Mint.
Configure Basic Settings
Choose your language and keyboard layout.
Check Install multimedia codecs and click Continue.
Partition the Disk
Linux identifies disks as sda, sdb, nvme0n1, etc. You have two options:
Option 1: Automatic Partitioning
Select Erase Disk and Install Linux Mint.
Choose the correct disk and click Install Now.
Option 2: Manual Partitioning
Select Something Else.
For a new disk: click New Partition Table.
For a used disk: delete existing partitions using the minus icon.
Recommended Layouts:
Non-GPT Disk: Root (/) + optional Swap.
GPT Disk: Add EFI or BIOS-Boot partition depending on boot mode.
Swap Guidelines:
Optional. Linux Mint defaults to a swap file.
If creating a swap partition, size it equal to your RAM (or double if RAM is low).
Steps:
Create EFI partition (if needed).
Create root partition (/) as ext4.
Optionally, create swap partition.
Ensure the bootloader installs to the same disk as Linux Mint.
Final Setup
Review changes and click Continue.
Set your time zone.
Enter your name, computer name, username, and password.
Choose login preferences and click Continue.
Finish Installation
Wait for the process to complete, then click Restart Now. You’re ready to explore Linux Mint 22 on a clean, dedicated setup.
Installing Linux Mint on a separate disk gives you full control and avoids bootloader conflicts. Enjoy your fresh Linux environment with peace of mind and flexibility.