How to create 2 partitions for WinVista and WinXP

[GiovanniBadilus]

Hi, I have an HP 6730b with Windows 10 Pro 64 Bit

I wanted to create 2 partitions, and have Win10 on the first one and WinXP in the second one.

I could make the 2 partitions, but they're just C: (79GB) and E: (39 GB).

I do not find a way to make them independent, and to choose at the BIOS if start the first or second one, and then to install WinXP in the second one.

how to do it?

thanks a lot!

[M_Salman]

Hi @GiovanniBadilus,

To achieve dual boot functionality with Windows 10 and Windows XP on your HP 6730b, you'll need to follow specific steps to ensure both operating systems can coexist independently. Here's a guide to help you set this up:

Steps to Set Up a Dual Boot System:

1. Backup Your Data:

   • Before making any significant changes to disk partitions or installations, ensure you backup your important data to avoid any accidental loss.

2. Partition the Hard Drive:

   • Since you have already partitioned the drive into C: and E: with Windows 10 installed on C:, you can proceed to install Windows XP on the E: drive.

3. Install Windows XP:

   • Insert your Windows XP installation media and restart your laptop.
   • Boot from the installation media (you may need to press a specific key like F9 or Esc during boot to select the boot device).
   • Follow the installation prompts and select the E: partition when it asks where to install. Be careful not to select the partition where Windows 10 is installed.

4. Repair the Windows Boot Loader:

   • After installing Windows XP, the Windows 10 boot loader will be overwritten. To fix this, you’ll need to repair the boot loader:
   • Boot from a Windows 10 installation media (USB or DVD).
   • Select “Repair your computer” when prompted.
   • Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Command Prompt.
   • In the Command Prompt, type the following commands one by one:

     bootrec /fixmbr
     bootrec /fixboot
     bootrec /rebuildbcd
     

5. Install a Boot Manager:

   • Once the boot loader is repaired, you may need a third-party boot manager like EasyBCD to manage the dual-boot setup. This software allows you to add Windows XP to the boot menu so you can choose which OS to boot into at start-up.

6. Configure BIOS Settings:

   • Ensure your BIOS is set to boot from the hard drive and recognizes the partitions correctly.

Notes:

• Driver Compatibility: Windows XP may not support newer hardware or drivers, so ensure you have the necessary drivers for XP before proceeding.
• Older File System: Be aware of the file system differences; Windows XP uses NTFS or FAT32, while Windows 10 primarily uses NTFS.