This is a follow up to my How To: Upgrade Windows XP to Windows Vista for those that are looking to install Windows Vista as a dual-boot with Windows XP.
If you’re going to tackle dual-boot, I’m going to presume that concepts like disk partitions and such are right up your alley. If you don’t know what a partition is, spend some time on Google and come back to this dual-boot in a few weeks. 🙂
How To: Dual Boot Windows XP and Windows Vista
- Make backups. Period. Do not pass go. MAKE BACKUPS!
- Set up a new NTFS partition (called V:) of at least 20GB using Acronis, GParted Live (free), Parition Magic or your favorite partition tool. Note: Windows XP’s native partition tool is *not* recommended.
- Boot to Windows XP.
- Inspect your new V: drive
- If your BIOS is configured to boot from DVD, I suggest installing Vista from DVD boot. Otherwise you have to install Vista from within XP. Also note, you may need driver cds for your peripherals!
- Reboot after install. You should have a boot menu on startup. The MICROSOFT WINDOWS option refers to Vista. The PREVIOUS VERSION option refers to XP.
That’s it! Enjoy!!
For further detail, I recommend the APC article on dual-boot, as it includes a step-by-step with screen shots.