GPT (GUID Partition Table), using UEFI which replaces BIOS, is used for MAC computers along with Windows 8 computers like Surface, Surface PRO, and others.Īt the end of the day, the LIVE USB that was created worked on both Win8 and MAC computers as the partition scheme was the same. (great link here )īIOS, using MBR partitioning scheme, is obviously used on windows 7 and earlier pc's, along with some Linux OS's as well. This will work for MAC or for windows 8 computers like Surface Pro 1-3 (when modifying their boot order). EFI Bootable Linux like Ubuntu 14.0 or higher Ĭhoose GPT for the partition Scheme and FAT32 for the file system, in Rufus and create.

Short answer: you need 2 things along with a windows OS installed on a comp. Just wanted to Post back with the answer to my own question. What process do I take to create this USB? I don't know whether EFI is an issue or not. Within my curriculum we are studying live boot USBs, so the challenge has been issued. Virtual box with MAC software is also off the table. I don't have a MAC myself nor access to one.

I'm a little new to the Linux community and I'm learning about EFI so my question is, is it a specific distro that would launch on both Windows and Macs as a live USB or what do i need to do to accomplish this task?īottom line is: I'm trying to help a co-worker recover files. The link I mention above does say to use UNetbootin yet in the second paragraph, under requirements, there is a blurb that the resulting USB will only be usable on PCs. Windows 7 or 8, it doesn't matter which one I use. This USB must be created on a PC however. I'm trying to create a bootable linux live USB that will work on a MAC (by holding the option/alt button down while booting)OSX Lion 10.7.something. How to create a Mac bootable live Linux USB on Windows? I'm trying to get more info on this subject.

Rufus for mac