Creating a Multiboot Live USB with Two Operating Systems

What is a LiveUSB and how do you make one with two operating systems? A LiveUSB is a bootable USB stick running a full operating system such as Linux, Windows, or self-contained utility. You can use this USB to install, debug, or experiment with different operating systems without relying on a hard drive.

There are several tools available to create a multiboot LiveUSB USB stick with two operating systems, such as YUMI and Ventoy. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to create a multiboot LiveUSB using YUMI. Another tool, SARDUO, can also be used to create a Live DVD, although the focus here is on creating a USB.

Software for Creating a Multiboot USB

To create a multiboot LiveUSB USB stick, you will need a third-party software tool. In this guide, we will use YUMI (Your Universal Multiboot Installer). You can download YUMI from the official website or a reputable source.

Steps to Create a Multiboot LiveUSB

Step 1: Choose the Drive to Work With

First, select the USB drive you want to use. Be cautious, as the process will erase all data on the selected drive. Make sure to back up any important files before proceeding.

Step 2: Select the Type of Distribution/Operating System

Next, choose the type of distribution or operating system you want to install on the USB drive. This can be a Linux distribution, Windows, or any other self-contained utility.

Step 3: Browse for the .iso File Image

Browse your computer to locate the .iso file image of the selected operating system. Once you have the file, click on the 'Create' button to start the installation process.

Step 4: Confirm and Install

A confirmation dialog box will appear. Click 'Yes' to proceed with the installation. YUMI will start installing the OS into the USB drive.

Step 5: Add More Distributions

After the first installation is complete, if you want to add more distributions, click 'Yes'. If not, click 'No' and the USB drive will be ready to be used as a bootable medium with the selected OS.

Step 6: Repeat for Additional OSes

If you want to keep adding more operating systems, repeat steps 1-5 for each additional system.

Conclusion

When you reboot your PC, you will see a boot menu where you can select which operating system to boot from the LiveUSB.

Additional Tools

If you prefer using a different tool, consider Ventoy, which is another popular option for creating multiboot USB drives. Another tool, SARDUO, can be used to create a Live DVD, although the primary focus here is on creating a USB.

To download YUMI, click here.

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