I have a scenario in which I want to install Ubuntu on a 128GB M.2 SSD, Windows on a 256GB SSD, and use a 1TB HDD for Windows.
I’m considering installing an Optane SSD (32GB) to speed up programs and processes on the HDD. However, I’m worried whether this will cause any complications for my dual boot/Ubuntu system. I would appreciate any advice on this matter.
For reference, my motherboard is a Z390 Aorus Pro with two M.2 M-key slots for SATA or NVMe SSD, my CPU is an i7-9700k, and the storage devices I currently have are a WD Blue 7200RPM HDD, a Samsung 850 EVO M.2 SSD, a Samsung 840 EVO Basic 256GB SSD, and an Intel Optane M.2 2280 32 GB PCIe NVMe 3.0 x2.
3 Answers
Introduction
In recent years, dual booting has become a popular way to use multiple operating systems on a single machine. Dual booting allows users to run multiple operating systems on the same computer, which can be beneficial for a variety of reasons. For example, some users may need to use certain software applications that are only available on one operating system or may prefer the interface of one operating system over the other. In this blog post, we will discuss the process of dual booting and the potential complications of using an Intel Optane SSD in a dual boot setup.
Dual Booting
Dual booting is the process of installing and running two or more operating systems on the same computer. This is typically done by creating separate partitions on the hard drive for each operating system. Each partition is then formatted and installed with the desired operating system. Once both operating systems are installed, the user can choose which one to boot into when starting the computer.
One of the primary benefits of dual booting is the ability to use software applications that are only available on one operating system. For example, some graphic design software may only be available on Windows, while some programming software may only be available on Linux. Additionally, dual booting can be useful for testing software or for running multiple versions of the same software.
However, dual booting can also be complicated and potentially risky. If not done correctly, it can result in data loss or damage to the operating systems. Additionally, some hardware components may not be compatible with certain operating systems, which can cause problems during the installation process.
Intel Optane SSD
The Intel Optane SSD is a high-speed storage device that can be used to speed up programs and processes on a hard drive. It works by caching frequently used data on the Optane SSD, which allows for faster access times and improved performance. The Optane SSD is typically installed in an M.2 slot on the motherboard, and can be used in conjunction with a traditional hard drive or solid-state drive.
While the Intel Optane SSD can provide significant performance improvements, it can also be complicated to set up and configure. Additionally, there may be compatibility issues with certain hardware components, especially in a dual boot setup.
Dual Booting with an Intel Optane SSD
If you are planning to dual boot with an Intel Optane SSD, there are several things to consider. First, you will need to ensure that your motherboard has an available M.2 slot for the Optane SSD. Additionally, you will need to ensure that the Optane SSD is compatible with both operating systems that you plan to use.
To set up the Optane SSD for use with a dual boot setup, you will need to configure it as a cache drive using the Intel Rapid Storage Technology software. This software is typically included with the motherboard or can be downloaded from the Intel website. Once the cache drive is configured, you can install the operating systems on their respective partitions.
It is important to note that there may be complications with using an Intel Optane SSD in a dual boot setup. For example, if the Optane SSD is not configured correctly, it may cause data loss or damage to the operating systems. Additionally, there may be compatibility issues with certain hardware components, which can cause problems during the installation process.
Conclusion
Dual booting can be a useful way to run multiple operating systems on the same computer. However, it can also be complicated and potentially risky. If you are planning to dual boot with an Intel Optane SSD, it is important to ensure that your hardware components are compatible and that the Optane SSD is configured correctly. By taking the necessary precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of dual booting and the improved performance of an Intel Optane SSD.
It should not cause any issues with your dual boot setup if you install the Intel Optane SSD as a secondary drive in your Windows system. The Optane drive can be used to accelerate the performance of your hard drive by acting as a cache, but it will not interfere with your dual boot configuration or your Ubuntu installation.
To use the Optane drive as a cache for your hard drive, you will need to install the Intel Optane Memory software on your Windows system and configure it to use the Optane drive as a cache for the hard drive. This will require you to partition the Optane drive and dedicate a portion of it to be used as a cache. You can then select the hard drive that you want to accelerate in the Optane Memory software, and it will automatically begin caching frequently used data from the hard drive to the Optane drive to improve its performance.
It’s important to note that the Optane drive will only be used to accelerate the performance of your hard drive on the Windows system. It will not have any effect on your Ubuntu installation or the performance of your M.2 and 2.5-inch SSDs.
In summary, installing an Intel Optane SSD as a secondary drive in your Windows system should not cause any issues with your dual boot setup or your Ubuntu installation. The Optane drive can be used to accelerate the performance of your hard drive by acting as a cache, but it will not interfere with your other drives or your dual boot configuration.
To use the Optane drive as a cache, you will need to install the Intel Optane Memory software on your Windows system and configure it to use the Optane drive as a cache for the hard drive. This can potentially improve the performance of your hard drive, but it will not have any effect on the performance of your M.2 and 2.5-inch SSDs.
To utilize the Optane M.2 module, it should be inserted into the shorter M.2 socket (M2M) on your motherboard, which is outlined on page 20 of the manual. It must also be paired with the GPT-formatted HDD using Intel’s Rapid Storage Technology utility, which is discussed on pages 46-47 of the manual.
The Optane module functions as a cache for the HDD’s contents. However, any modifications made to the HDD will not be reflected in the Optane module, making it risky to write to the HDD in Linux even if it can be read using the Linux ntfs-3g package.
Therefore, any files you wish to access in Linux should either be on one of the SSDs or an external device.
Intel provides these specifications:
Operating System
Q: What operating systems does Intel® Optane™ memory support when used for system acceleration?*
A: Intel® Optane™ memory requires Windows 10 64-bit to be used as a system accelerator.
Q: Is Linux* supported when using Intel® Optane™ memory for system acceleration?
A: No, the accelerated SATA drive must be running Windows 10 64-bit.
Q: Can Intel® Optane™ memory boost the performance of multiple drives?
A: No, Intel® Optane™ memory can accelerate one SATA-based drive.