STEP 077 of 16
Install ZimaOS
Choose the correct drive, install, then complete the first boot.
◷ About 15 min◇ CarefulReviewed Aug 18, 2026
Printable pre-install check#
- [ ] Important Windows files are backed up and opened from the backup.
- [ ] The target drive’s model and capacity are written down.
- [ ] Extra internal or external drives are disconnected if practical.
- [ ] Ethernet, monitor, keyboard and reliable power are connected.
- [ ] The ZimaOS installer has booted from the USB.
Choose the drive carefully#
- 1At the ZimaOS installer menu, choose Install ZimaOS.
- 2Select the intended internal SSD by its model and capacity—not merely “Drive 0”.
- 3Read the erase warning and compare the drive details with your note.
- 4Confirm only when the target is correct.
- 5Wait without switching off the PC.
- 6When prompted, remove the USB and choose restart.
- 7Let the first boot finish. Several minutes can be normal.
Ethernet is recommended because ZimaOS can receive a local address immediately without Wi-Fi driver or password issues. The monitor should eventually show the ZimaOS version and a local IP address.
The installer sees no drive
Check that the drive appears in UEFI setup. Some PCs use Intel RST/VMD or RAID modes that hide storage from Linux installers. Do not switch modes casually on a machine that still needs Windows; changing it can stop Windows from booting.
It boots back into the installer
Remove the USB, then restart. If the internal drive still does not boot, open the boot menu and select its UEFI entry.
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