Covago

Switch safely in 6 steps

Designed to stay reversible at every stage.

Safety first

No irreversible step early on

You can test Linux in live mode before touching your Windows install.

Beginner path

Clear steps, no jargon

Each step explains what to do, why it matters, and what mistakes to avoid.

Practical

Works on normal home PCs

Focus on Wi-Fi, graphics, and files first so your daily use stays smooth.

Before you start

Quick readiness check

If you can tick these, you're in a good spot to switch safely.

Confidence map

Know what is safe vs high-stakes

  1. Stage 1: Safe prep

    Steps 1 to 3 are preparation only, and mostly reversible.

  2. Stage 2: Hardware check

    Step 4 verifies Wi-Fi/audio/video in live mode before install.

  3. Stage 3: Install changes disk layout

    Step 5 is the high-stakes stage. Slow down and confirm each screen.

If something goes wrong

Use this order before making extra changes:

  1. Stop and do not confirm new partition changes.
  2. Boot back into Windows and verify your backup files.
  3. Retry with dual boot guided mode, not manual partitioning.

Migration time estimator

Beginner confidence

Why first-time switchers usually succeed

  • Most issues are found in step 4 live mode before install.
  • Dual boot keeps a fallback path, which reduces pressure.
  • You can keep refining Linux after install; it does not need to be perfect on day one.

Step 5 decision

Dual boot first unless you have a strong reason not to

For beginners, this gives the best balance of safety and momentum.

Recommended: Dual boot

Keep Windows as fallback while learning Linux. Lower stress, easier recovery.

Replace Windows now

Cleaner final setup, but only when backup is verified and you are fully sure.

You can switch from dual boot to full Linux later when comfortable.

Step-by-step beginner walkthrough

Print steps 4 and 5 before reboot

Create a printable handout with detailed install and troubleshooting instructions so you can keep going while the PC restarts.