by Dr. Manura Nanayakkara

Created on: June 05, 2010   Last Updated: June 06, 2010

Windows 7 is the latest incarnation of popular Windows line of operating systems. It has many positive features compared to Windows XP like Improved security, improved user interface and improved communication features. But since Windows 7 is a new operating system, it has several software and hardware compatibility issues. So if you are having essential, old hardware or software that is not compatible with Windows 7 then the best option would be to create a dual boot environment.

 Microsoft identified this problem and created XP Mode. But this option has several drawbacks. First you need the most expensive windows 7 version (Ultimate). Since XP Mode is a virtual environment, hardware compatibility issues cannot be solved. Another problem is XP Mode requires a microprocessor with hardware virtualization.

 There will be two possible scenarios.

1. Install Windows 7 in Dual Boot with pre installed Windows XP

2. Install Windows XP in Dual Boot with pre installed Windows 7

 Things you need

1. Windows 7 and  Windows XP Bootable CDs/DVDs

2. Third party free tool called GParted.

3. All your hardware Driver CDs/DVDs

4. Lot of patience

 *Install Windows 7 in Dual Boot with pre installed Windows XP*

 First you have to backup your entire system. This step is very important, because messing with partition tables in your hard disks can sometimes lead to data loss. So goto start menu click accessories, click system tools, click backup. Click next two times and choose what you want to backup. You need tape drive or large removable disk for this process. Unfortunately CDRW option is not included. You can have third party backup software, if you want more options.

 *Creating a separate partition for Windows 7*

For that you need a third party tool called Gparted. You can download it in here. Then burn it into a CD. This tool is essential if you want to keep your existing data. After that boot your machine with the above CD. Then choose the first option in boot menu. After that you will get a graphical user interface. Your hard disks will be displayed as bars. Choose the hard disk where you want to install windows 7. Select resize/move partition option. Then allocate the size of new partition by moving the slider. At least 15GB is recommended for Windows 7. Then click apply. Remember/write down the size of allocated partition.

 Then put the windows 7 install DVD and boot from the DVD. Select partition you have just created and install.

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