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Safely Remove Ubuntu from Windows Dual-Boot - Complete UEFI & GRUB Cleanup

· 9 min read
Guangze Yang
Guangze Yang
Master of Control System, Ibaraki University

This comprehensive guide explains how to safely remove Ubuntu from a Windows dual-boot system, clean up partitions, and restore the Windows bootloader. Follow these steps carefully to avoid data loss and system issues.

Data Loss Warning

Removing Ubuntu involves deleting partitions and modifying system boot files. Always backup important data before proceeding. Incorrect execution can make your system unbootable.

Overview​

When Ubuntu is installed alongside Windows in a dual-boot configuration, it typically:

  • Creates Linux partitions (root, swap, sometimes home)
  • Installs GRUB bootloader to manage boot options
  • Adds EFI entries for Linux boot process
  • Modifies system boot sequence

Proper removal requires:

  1. Backing up important data
  2. Removing Ubuntu EFI entries
  3. Deleting Ubuntu partitions
  4. Restoring Windows bootloader
  5. Reclaiming disk space

Prerequisites​

Required Access​

  • Windows Administrator privileges
  • Physical access to the computer
  • Windows installation media (for recovery if needed)
  • Complete data backup of important files
  • Create Windows recovery drive
  • Document current partition layout
  • Note Ubuntu version and installation details

System Requirements​

  • UEFI-based system (most modern computers)
  • Windows 10/11 with Disk Management tools
  • Stable power supply during the process