Windows XP 64 Bit and Windows Vista 64 Bit Dual Boot

  • Thread starter Thread starter Will
  • Start date Start date
W

Will

I would like to set up both Windows XP 64 Bit and Windows Vista 64 Bit on
the same boot device. Is it possible to do this onto the same system
partition? If yes, what sequence is recommended?

The thought occurs that the two OS will probably have conflicting programs
and assignments to folders under Program Files and Documents & Settings, so
likely they need to have separate boot partitions. All advice on the
most maintainable setup is appreciated.
 
Hi Will,

You cannot install them on the same system volume, you need two separate
partitions at a minimum. The proper order, as always, is to install the
older OS first. Also, one caveat: XP when booted will wipe out Vista restore
points. The solution to this issue is to hide each install volume from the
other using a third party boot manager.

An alternate solution, if your preferred software needs XP, is to install
Virtual PC and run XP under it (but this would have to be the 32-bit
version). Then you can access the XP install without rebooting and shutting
down Vista.

--
Best of Luck,

Rick Rogers, aka "Nutcase" - Microsoft MVP

Windows help - www.rickrogers.org
My thoughts http://rick-mvp.blogspot.com
 
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