How To Install Ubuntu and Windows 10 on SSD: Fixing SSD Not Detected Issue

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the process of installing both Ubuntu and Windows 10 on an SSD. We’ll also address the common issue of the SSD not being detected during the Ubuntu installation.

Prerequisites

Before we begin, ensure that you have:

• A computer with an SSD
• A bootable USB drive with Ubuntu
• A bootable USB drive with Windows 10
• Backup of all important data

Part 1: Checking BIOS Settings

The first step to address the SSD not detected issue is to check your BIOS settings.

1. Restart your computer and press the key to enter BIOS (usually F2, F10, or Del).
2. Navigate to the ‘Storage’ or ‘SATA Configuration’ section.
3. Make sure that the SSD is enabled and not set to RAID mode. If it is, change it to AHCI mode.
4. Save the changes and exit the BIOS.

Note: Some systems may require a BIOS update or SSD firmware update for proper recognition. Check your manufacturer’s website for any updates.

Part 2: Verifying Windows Hibernation Status

If Windows is hibernated, it can prevent Ubuntu from accessing the SSD. To disable hibernation in Windows:

1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type powercfg.exe /h off and press Enter.

This command disables hibernation by turning off the hibernation file.

Part 3: Shrinking Windows Partition

If the SSD is already occupied by the Windows installation, you’ll need to shrink the Windows partition to create space for Ubuntu.

1. Open Disk Management in Windows.
2. Right-click on the Windows partition and select ‘Shrink Volume’.
3. Enter the amount of space to shrink in MB and click on ‘Shrink’.

Note: You can use third-party tools like Partition Magic for more advanced partitioning options.

Part 4: Installing Ubuntu

During the Ubuntu installation, choose the “Something else” option when prompted for the installation type. This allows you to manually partition the SSD and allocate space for Ubuntu.

1. Boot your computer from the Ubuntu USB drive.
2. Select ‘Try Ubuntu without installing’ to launch the live environment.
3. Open the installer and proceed until you reach the ‘Installation type’ screen.
4. Select ‘Something else’ and click ‘Continue’.

Part 5: Allocating Partitions for Ubuntu

In the partitioning tool:

1. Select the free space on the SSD and click ‘+’
2. Create a new partition for Ubuntu. Choose the desired size, select the file system as ext4, and set the mount point as “/” to make it the root partition.
3. Click ‘OK’ to create the partition.
4. Select the new partition and click ‘Install Now’ to start the installation.

Part 6: Completing the Installation

Proceed with the Ubuntu installation process, following the on-screen instructions. Once the installation is complete, Ubuntu should be installed on the SSD alongside Windows.

Remember to back up any important files before making any changes to your system. We hope this guide has been helpful in installing Ubuntu and Windows 10 on your SSD and fixing the SSD not detected issue.

Note: The provided information is based on the context given. It is important to thoroughly understand the steps and potential risks involved before proceeding with any changes to your system.