bac0926

I would like to be able to dual boot Windows XP & Ubuntu on a single HD.
However a friend told me you need two separate HD to dual boot. Is this True?

elf

No that is not true.

here is a step by step guide: http://apcmag.com/how_to_dual_boot_w...lled_first.htm

here is another: http://www.linuxdevcenter.com/pub/a/...ot-laptop.html

bac0926

I followed the instructions went to terminal copied the command typed in pswd and all I get is a empty file?

elf

You'll have to give me more information. What terminal? what command? How far did you get?

bac0926

1) here is URL http://apcmag.com/how_to_dual_boot_l...rst.htm?page=2
2) here is procedure and command
- Back up the GRUB boot menu
Firstly, boot into Ubuntu and go to Applications --> Accessories --> Terminal. Then, type in sudo gedit /boot/grub/menu.lst.
rather than type command I copied it.
All I get is a empty file

Net Jockey

It is a long time since I did that...but the Ubuntu disk did everything for me. I regret doing that though...I need to get rid of Ubuntu and try another Distro.
Hope you have better luck.

elf

I have to say, linux is like a foreign language to me. I will move this thread to our linux subforum and see if one of them can help us.

Done_Fishin

Normally you will start out having XP installed on your hard disk before deciding to install Ubuntu

Best to use a Live CD like GpartEd which will allow you to shrink your XP partition and then create a new blank unformatted partition for Ubuntu to be installed.

you would then insert your Ubuntu Live CD, select install, direct the install to your blank partition and Ubuntu will do the rest. It will ask you to supply a name and then you will give your preferred password which you will use every time you boot after you finish the installation.

It really is straightforward and simple ..

You don't actually need two disks but it can be preferable since if anything goes sour then you may find yourself requiring to install one or both OS's, as I have found to my cost .. luckily it was only the Linux install I lost thus ensuring that I practiced my Linux install technique

bac0926

I found the source of the problem..when I copied the text I accidentally copied the period at the end of the sentence and like any good computer "lst." is not = "lst" the period was so small I missed it the first two times..

wmorri

Elf, that you for send him to us. I understand how linux can be for most people. Windows is starting to be that way with me I must admit.

We are going to work without the guide from here on out. It is an ok guide but it has a lot of information, and it doesn't do a very good job of describing what you are doing.

Onward to the problem at hand. I need to know from the OP if he had windows installed first or if he is totally starting over. That will give us some options. Also, I have to agree with fishin on this one GParted is a great partition program.

To burn an livecd you need to get the .iso file from gparted.sourceforge.net. Once the file is downloaded you need a cd burner that can handle ISO's. I would recommend CDburnerXP. This is a great free program. Let us know about all that information, then we can help you with your partitioning. It really isn't that hard.


Cheers!

bac0926

OK..THX..
1) I currently have Ubuntu only
2) went to the link for gpart..thats a search site with links..I clicked on the link for gpart..that took me to another search site I typed in Gpart no results.
3) I have Partion Magic 8.0 can I use that
4) I have a CD/DVD that will also burn ISO theburner it's

Done_Fishin

http://gparted.sourceforge.net/livecd.php

bac0926

Were getting there..this site says it's to download to ISO,USB,PXE server,and HD(ZIp) all of them have download links EXCEPT the CD(ISO)

Bartender

Here ya go
http://sourceforge.net/project/showf...kage_id=271779

That's the link to the latest stable version

Done_Fishin

Sorry but that page does show this

it was there but you have to follow the links

naveengorantla

hi i think i can tell u the easy and smallest way of solution for your problem.... first u should install xp...... then u install virtual box software....by this software you can install as many operating systems as you want......... for virtual box help you should go to youtube.com then type "how to use virtual box" in search box...
please dont mind if you feel bad for my solution......

bac0926

OK....downloaded and burned it...do I now follow the original inst????????

Done_Fishin

If XP is installed then go on to making your Ubuntu install as said previously

as an added note ..

BACK UP ANY IMPORTANT FILES NOW !!!!!

if something goes sour .. you'll be kicking yourself afterwards

Good luck

bac0926

1) Actually it's the reverse Ubuntu is already installed I will be installing Windows

2) I routinely back up my files..its saved my A.... many times

Done_Fishin

when installing Ubuntu it MUST be installed after XP or you'll lose the ability to boot XP

repairing XP will cause you to lose ability to boot Ubuntu

only by installing to another HDD with the XP HDD will solve that problem .. and then you will have to boot using the F8 boot menu or select the bootable drive from BIOS.