How to partition a disk for Linux
Most installers partition automatically. Understanding the pieces helps if you choose manual setup.
Common partitions
- EFI: about 512 MB, holds boot files on UEFI computers.
- Root (/): the system, 30 GB or more.
- Home: your files, optional separate partition.
- Swap: overflow memory, a few GB, or a swap file.
Safety
Back up first and double-check the target disk. Never format a partition you have not identified. See install Linux.