>>724161402
What's involved: Windows uses its own bootloader (e.g., Bootmgr or EFI boot entries), while Linux typically uses GRUB. During Linux installation, GRUB often replaces or modifies the Windows bootloader to handle dual booting.
Risk of data loss: If the bootloader installation goes wrong (e.g., GRUB fails to detect Windows properly or writes to the wrong EFI partition), it can make one or both OSes unbootable. Attempting to repair this—such as using Windows recovery tools or reinstalling GRUB—might inadvertently wipe boot sectors or partitions. For instance, running Windows' "Startup Repair" could overwrite GRUB, and if not fixed carefully, repeated fixes could corrupt the drive's master boot record (MBR) or EFI system partition, leading to broader instability.
Risk of data loss: If you access shared partitions (e.g., a data partition) from both OSes, improper shutdowns, driver issues, or permissions mismatches can cause corruption. For instance, hibernating Windows and then booting into Linux might lead to write conflicts on NTFS, corrupting files. Over time, this could spread if the drive's overall integrity is compromised (e.g., bad sectors develop and aren't handled properly by one OS).
Risk of data loss: A Windows update might alter the boot configuration in a way that breaks Linux access, or a Linux kernel update could mishandle the shared drive. If Secure Boot is enabled/disabled incorrectly, it might prevent booting altogether, and forceful fixes (e.g., resetting BIOS) could lead to partition mismatches. In rare cases, driver conflicts cause overheating or excessive wear on the drive, accelerating hardware failure.
