Linux – How to install Windows 10 without using external media

arch linuxbootlinuxpartitioningwindows 10

Is there any way to create a partition on my drive and use it to boot and install another system on the same drive as if it was a bootable USB, for example?

My scenario: I have one single drive in this machine (Arch Linux), an SSD with ~400GB free space. I want to create a partition (~8GB for Win10) and burn the Windows image there, so my machine boots from it after rebooting, and I can install the system on the same SSD.

UEFI boot, btw. I already have an EFI system partition alongside my system.

Best Answer

I have two crazy ideas which might be feasible.

Download first a Windows 10 ISO and reduce the Linux partition to a minimum, then:

Idea 1

Run the setup program from the ISO using WINE and install into the empty space.

Idea 2

Create a new FAT32 partition of a few gigas and copy the ISO contents to it. Add the partition to the EFI boot menu and boot from it. If it works, you may format the Linux partition and install Windows into it.

Notes:

  1. In all cases, don't take chances with your Linux installation as long as it's the only tool you have.
  2. Getting a USB key of a few gigas would really be much simpler.
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