In this article, we will guide you on how to add Ubuntu to the Windows 7 boot menu using Grub2. This process is useful when you have a dual boot system with Windows and Ubuntu installed on separate partitions.
To add Ubuntu to the Windows 7 boot menu with Grub2, you can use a tool called EasyBCD. This process involves downloading and installing EasyBCD, adding a new entry in EasyBCD, installing the NeoGrub bootloader, and finally rebooting your system. This allows you to choose between Windows and Ubuntu each time you boot your computer.
Prerequisites
Before proceeding, ensure that you have:
- A system with Windows 7 and Ubuntu already installed.
- Admin privileges on the Windows system.
- Familiarity with basic system administration tasks.
Step 1: Download and Install EasyBCD
The first step is to download and install EasyBCD, a free tool from NeoSmart Technologies that allows you to manage your boot entries. You can download it from the official website.
After downloading, install EasyBCD by following the on-screen instructions.
Step 2: Open EasyBCD and Add a New Entry
Once EasyBCD is installed, open it and select Add New Entry from the sidebar on the left.
Step 3: Install NeoGrub Bootloader
In the Operating Systems section, select the rightmost tab called NeoGrub and click the Install button. NeoGrub is a version of the GRUB bootloader that is compatible with Windows systems.
Step 4: Add Ubuntu to the Boot Menu
Next, select the Linux/BSD tab. In the Type dropdown menu, choose GRUB2. This is because Ubuntu uses the GRUB2 bootloader by default.
You can also edit the Name field to change the name of the entry that will appear in the Windows boot menu. For example, you might want to name it “Ubuntu”.
After you’ve made these changes, click the Add Entry button to save them.
Step 5: Reboot Your System
Finally, reboot your computer. When the Windows boot menu appears, you should see the entry you added. Select it to boot into Ubuntu.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter any issues, check if the NeoGrub bootloader is installed correctly. Look for a \NST folder on your C: drive. If it’s there, NeoGrub is installed.
Also, remember that using EasyBCD to boot to GRUB from the Windows boot menu may slow down the booting process. If you want a faster boot, you can remove the Ubuntu option from the Windows boot menu and configure the MBR to point directly to the Ubuntu GRUB. This will list all the operating systems installed on your system.
Conclusion
Adding Ubuntu to the Windows 7 boot menu with Grub2 is a straightforward process with EasyBCD. This setup allows you to choose between Windows and Ubuntu each time you boot your computer, making it ideal for systems used for both personal and professional purposes.
No, the process outlined in this article requires the use of EasyBCD to manage the boot entries.
Yes, EasyBCD is available for free. However, there is also a paid version with additional features.
Yes, you can use this method to add other Linux distributions that use the GRUB2 bootloader to the Windows boot menu.
No, adding Ubuntu to the Windows boot menu will not affect your Windows installation. The two operating systems will remain separate.
Yes, you can remove Ubuntu from the Windows boot menu using EasyBCD. Simply open EasyBCD, select the Ubuntu entry, and click on the "Delete" button.
Using EasyBCD to boot to GRUB from the Windows boot menu may slightly slow down the booting process. If you prefer a faster boot, you can remove the Ubuntu option from the Windows boot menu and configure the MBR to point directly to the Ubuntu GRUB.
To access the Windows boot menu, restart your computer and press the F8 key repeatedly before the Windows logo appears. This will bring up the boot menu where you can select the operating system you want to boot into.
