Want to install Vista on your PC but don't want to get rid of XP just yet? Here's how to install it so you can dual-boot between them, in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide.
Want to install Vista on your PC but don't want to get rid of XP just yet? Here's how to install it so you can dual-boot between them, in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide.
Boot the machine from the Vista DVD. Select the appropriate language and then "Install Now".
XP & Vista - Load Vista
On the product key page, press SHIFT + F10 to launch a Windows PE 2.0 command window. Then type in DISKPART and press enter to get into the DISKPART utility.
XP & Vista - DISKPART
Now type in LIST VOLUME - this gives you a readout of the volumes available on the system. Select the main Windows XP volume (probably Volume 0) by typing in SELECT VOLUME 0.
XP & Vista - DISKPART Volume
Now type in SHRINK. Vista will reduce the size of Volume 0 (the selected Volume) by around 50%.
XP & Vista - DISKPART Shrink
Once that is done, type in EXIT and EXIT again to get back to the Vista installation window.
Once the install gets to the install location, there should be at least two options: a partition marked as Primary and unallocated space. Select the unallocated space and click Next. The install will then commence.
XP & Vista - Install Vista
The Vista boot manager will take over the system completely, and Windows XP effectively loads via Vista. It’s all pretty seamless though, and you shouldn’t encounter any technical problems.
Once Vista is installed and the system reboots, you’ll be presented with a boot menu with two options: “Microsoft Windows Vista” and “An Earlier Version of Windows”(XP).
XP & Vista - Boot Menu