Is it possible to boot Ubuntu using the Windows bootloader?

Solution 1:

Assuming that Windows is already installed, install Ubuntu on another partition. Make sure that you install Grub2 on the Ubuntu partition - don't install it on the MBR since this will overwrite the Windows boot-loader.

Boot into Windows and install EasyBCD

Add Entry and choose Grub2 i.e.

Then write back the modified Windows Boot-loader i.e.

Reboot - you will now have two options:

Boot into Ubuntu and change the Grub Timeout value i.e.

gksudo gedit /etc/default/grub

change "GRUB_TIMEOUT=10" to "GRUB_TIMEOUT=0" and save.

Finally:

sudo update-grub

source

Solution 2:

I've been through it. Here's the way I solved it.

You need to restore MBR, so it boots into Windows again, not Linux, THEN add Linux.

1. Boot from Windows installation disk;
2. Choose Repair/Startup repair; Windows will restore MBR;
3. When done, reboot into Windows;
4. Open EasyBCD, and add Linux;
5. On reboot, you will see the good old black screen with Windows bootloader and two entries: Windows and Linux;
6. Voila.

Solution 3:

I've found this very usefull but found an easier way to fix this. When you have access to your windows installation and have EasyBCD installed. You can just repair you MBR from within the tool.(done with EasyBCD 2.2.0.182)

1. Open EasyBCD and click on "BCD Deployement"

2. In the section "MBR Configuration Options" ensure that "Install the Windows Vista/7 bootloader to the MBR" is selected and click the "Write MBR" button

3. Reboot and enjoy the magic of Windows Bootloader

Hope this helps someone