How to Dual Boot Windows 7 with other Operating Systems?

Dual Boot Windows 7 refers to the process which allows you to install the operating system in your computer while there is another version already installed there. This is really helpful when you are quite comfortable with your existing operating system say Windows XP or Vista and want to try out Windows 7. By using the Dual Boot Windows 7 method, you would be able to install Windows 7 operating system without removing the already installed version. Once you have tried the option, you can remove the one with which you are less comfortable and content with.

The Process

Before starting the process, ensure that you have a copy of the operating system with you in a DVD. Then, follow the below steps

Hard Drive Partition

In case you have only one partition in your hard drive then you would need to create more in order to install Windows 7. This is because one partition can hold only one operating system. Now the way to create a partition depends on the current operating system you have in your computer. In case you are using Vista, there is an inbuilt tool which you can use while if you have XP, you would need to use third party software.
Create a new partition which has at least 16 GB of space available.

Install Windows 7

Concerning Dual Boot Windows 7, once you have created the partition, install a fresh copy of the operating system in the newly created space. Insert the disc in DVD ROM and restart the computer. The computer would boot by using the DVD. If it does not, select the boot from CD option in the BIOS.

Follow the simple instructions as they appear to install a copy of Windows 7. Remember to choose the custom (advanced) option when prompted to select. Also choose the partition drive carefully. In case you select the one which already has a version installed, the older one would be replaced by windows 7.

Wait for the entire process to be completed. Depending on your computer’s configuration, it might take anywhere between 30 to 90 minutes.

Using the Operating System in Dual Boot Windows 7

Restart the computer once the installation is complete. You can select the operating system which you want to use to boot the system by using the arrow keys and pressing enter. You can also install more than two operating systems by using the same procedure as above.