It won't install

[richc101]

I’m an absolute beginner at Linux so pretend I’m 5 years old. I can boot off a flash drive no problem. I tried to install along side Windows 10. It tells me I have to turn off BitLocker. After repeated failures to install I found out that Windows 10 Home Edition does not have BitLocker. What can I do?

[peterwhite23]

Welcome to the Ubuntu Community, @richc101 !

@richc101

After repeated failures to install I found out that Windows 10 Home Edition does not have BitLocker.

You may be mistaken there:

Device Encryption is a Windows feature that enables BitLocker encryption automatically for the Operating System drive and fixed drives. It’s particularly beneficial for everyday users who want to ensure their personal information is safe without having to manage complex security settings.
[…]
Unlike BitLocker Drive Encryption, which is available on Windows Pro, Enterprise, or Education editions, Device Encryption is available on a wider range of devices, including those running Windows Home.

See this section of the Ubuntu documentation for more help.

[richc101]

Thanks for your reply. There is no Bitlocker on my computer. I can’t be the only person who has dealt with this. Is there any workaround?

[peterwhite23]

Are you absolutely sure? It may not be advertised as BitLocker, but simply as “Device Encryption”. Because it looks like there is, otherwise the installer wouldn’t tell you about it being enabled; it cannot operate on an encrypted device.

[richc101]

I found Device Encryption. It’s turned off. Ubuntu is still telling me to to turn off BitLocker.

[guiverc]

Windows 10 came with software run encryption; this is what the unstated Ubuntu installer is referring to as Bitlocker.

Yes, a later introduction was hardware run encryption that was added to later Windows 10 & Windows 11, and the term Bitlocker was used more widely, but its still encryption and should be disabled either way.

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/security/operating-system-security/data-protection/bitlocker/

Note Microsoft WIndows 10 is listed on bitlocker page

Whatever encryption your Windows 10 has (software on older 10; hardware run encryption on later 10 & 11) it needs to be turned off.

You should also be specific with details, you don’t mention what Ubuntu product or release you’re using, as different installers are available for the different product, and you’ve given no specifics.

[richc101]

Well suddenly it’s installing. I have no idea why it worked this time. This is obviously way over my head. Too bad this isn’t simpler. Seems like after all these years you still have to be a programmer to use Linux. Thanks for the replies. Out.

[aljames]

@richc101

Too bad this isn’t simpler. Seems like after all these years you still have to be a programmer to use Linux. Thanks for the replies. Out.

You got some really good explanations here. The community is kind and will help users of all experience levels, and you may need us again.

Think of it this way, when in your life, have you ever booted up a MSWs machine, and it offered you the opportunity to boot into an alternative OS? Linux can give you that option. Obviously, if Windows by default takes over your entire system with an encryption mechanism, then that won’t play nice with any other operating system or boot loader running on your hardware. Glad you got it working, and hope you come to enjoy the freedoms of open source & Ubuntu.