Re: Dual boot - Windows 10 and FreeBSD encrypted ZFS

From: David Christensen <dpchrist_at_holgerdanske.com>
Date: Thu, 31 Jul 2025 22:04:44 UTC
On 7/30/25 23:11, Johan Helsingius wrote:
> On 30/07/2025 22:13, David Christensen wrote:
>> Lucas FMSE chapter 11 [1] provides guidance for installing FreeBSD 
>> manually.
>>
>> If you want ZFS root, Lucas fmzfs chapter 8 [2] provides guidance.
> 
> Thanks! Will check it out!
> 
>> If the laptop disk is not readily accessible, I would leave Windows 10 
>> on the disk, install a hypervisor, create a virtual machine, and 
>> install into the VM using the FreeBSD installer.
> 
> I guess that is a way, but I was hoping to avoid that. Been happily
> running a Windows/encrypted Linux setup on my other laptop...
> 
>      Julf


Assuming the SSD is not soldered onto the motherboard, if you intend to 
run FreeBSD on the laptop daily and never use Windows again, but you 
want to be able to boot Windows in case you need to run some 
Windows-only hardware/ firmware utility, then swapping the disk is what 
I would do; even if that means opening the laptop.  STFW to see if 
Lenovo has a service manual.  Watch YouTube videos.  Research what SSD's 
the laptop supports and buy a suitable SSD; buying an identical SSD is 
an easy and safe bet.  Get the right tools, including an anti-static 
wrist strap.  Check if https://www.ifixit.com/ has a kit with everything 
you need.  Go for it.


David