How I Put Linux on a Microsoft Surface Go - Easy Method

How I put Linux on a Microsoft Surface Go - in just an hour


The Microsoft Surface Go is compact, powerful, and versatile. However, Windows may not offer the customization, speed, or open-source capabilities some users desire. That’s where Linux comes in. This guide will walk you through the steps of installing Linux on your Surface Go, helping you unlock new capabilities while maintaining your system’s functionality and efficiency.

Why Install Linux on a Surface Go?

Linux offers customization options that are hard to find on proprietary operating systems. Whether you’re a developer, a student, or just someone who enjoys experimenting with technology, Linux can enhance your Surface Go by providing a lightweight, efficient, and highly customizable OS that allows you to maximize its hardware.

Requirements and Preparations

To install Linux on your Surface Go, you'll need a few essentials:

  • A USB drive (at least 8GB)
  • A reliable internet connection
  • A separate device for assistance (recommended)
  • Basic understanding of the Linux OS

Choosing the Right Linux Distribution

When installing Linux on your Surface Go, the choice of distribution matters. Here are a few options:

  • Ubuntu: Popular and user-friendly, ideal for beginners.
  • Fedora: Known for its speed and cutting-edge software.
  • Arch Linux: Highly customizable but recommended for experienced users.
  • Pop!_OS: Great for productivity, with enhanced hardware compatibility.

Choose a distribution that suits your needs, balancing ease of use and functionality.



Backup Your Data

Before making any changes, ensure you have a full backup. Installing Linux may require re-partitioning your hard drive, and data loss is always a risk. Backup your files to an external drive or cloud service to keep your data safe.

Disabling Secure Boot

Secure Boot is a UEFI feature designed to prevent unauthorized software from loading. For Linux installations, you’ll often need to disable this feature:

  1. Restart the Surface Go and press the Volume Up button while turning it on.
  2. In the UEFI menu, find Security settings.
  3. Disable Secure Boot Control and exit.

Creating a Bootable USB Drive

To create a bootable USB, use software like Rufus on Windows:

  1. Insert your USB drive and open Rufus.
  2. Choose your Linux ISO file and select GPT for partitioning.
  3. Click Start to create the bootable USB.

Alternatively, Etcher is another option that works across platforms.

Booting into Linux

With your bootable USB ready:

  1. Plug it into the Surface Go and restart.
  2. Access the boot menu by pressing Volume Down and the Power button.
  3. Select the USB drive to boot from and enter Live Mode to test Linux without installing it.

Partitioning the Disk

Partitioning allows you to install Linux without wiping the entire drive. During installation:

  • Shrink the existing Windows partition to make space.
  • Create a new EXT4 partition for Linux and a swap partition if desired.

Installing Linux on Surface Go

Once partitioned:

  1. Run the Linux installer and follow the prompts.
  2. Choose the custom partitioning option, selecting the space you created.
  3. Finish the installation, and Linux will guide you through the remaining steps.

Post-Installation Setup

Once Linux is installed, update your system and install necessary drivers. Some distributions may require Surface-specific kernel patches to ensure hardware compatibility. Research which patches are best suited to your Linux distribution.

Configuring Surface Go Hardware for Linux

For optimal performance, configure hardware like the touchscreen and Wi-Fi. Most Linux distributions support Wi-Fi and Bluetooth out of the box, but further setup may be needed for features like the Surface Pen.

Optimizing Battery Life on Linux

Linux can be power-hungry on devices like the Surface Go. Use TLP or PowerTOP to manage power settings and maximize battery life.

Setting Up Dual Boot (Optional)

If you prefer to keep Windows, consider a dual-boot setup:

  1. During partitioning, retain your Windows partition.
  2. After installation, configure GRUB to let you select Windows or Linux at startup.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Wi-Fi or Touchscreen Not Working:
Check online forums for specific drivers and patches.

2. Performance Tweaks for Surface Go:
Try lightweight desktop environments like XFCE or LXDE for faster performance.

Conclusion

Installing Linux on a Microsoft Surface Go can breathe new life into your device, offering enhanced speed, security, and flexibility. This guide equips you with everything you need to get started, from choosing the right distribution to troubleshooting any issues.

FAQs

  1. Can I install Linux on Surface Go without removing Windows?
    Yes, using a dual-boot setup allows you to keep both operating systems.

  2. Which Linux distribution works best on Surface Go?
    Ubuntu and Pop!_OS are often recommended for Surface Go due to their hardware compatibility.

  3. Does Linux support the Surface Pen and touchscreen?
    Basic functionality is often supported, but additional configuration may be required.

  4. How can I improve battery life on Linux?
    Using tools like TLP or PowerTOP can help manage power and extend battery life.

  5. Is it difficult to revert to Windows after installing Linux?
    You can revert by reinstalling Windows or restoring from a backup if you decide Linux isn’t for you.

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