If you have system running Windows XP, Windows 7 or any other version of Windows and want to maintain current OS but also want to include Vista, solution is called Dual Boot. It basically gives two virtual PCs, one running Vista and one running other system. To make this two PC setup, you must virtually make two hard drives using method called partition. From there, installing Vista is easy.

Instructions

Preparing Your Hard Drive

Step 1

Download free GParted partitioning application.

Step 2

Burn ISO file that downloads to blank CD. Leave CD in drive when completed.

Step 3

Reboot PC. Rather than loading regular OS, machine will boot from GParted CD.

Step 4

Choose "GParted Live (Default settings)" from instruction that appears. Undergo next two pages to choose language and keyboard settings.

Step 5

When main user interface opens, right click "ntfs" and decide "Resize/Move."

Step 6

Move slider bar that shows to vacant space as you want on hard drive for Vista. You can see how much space vacating where it says "Free Space Following (MB)." You want at least 10 GB to install Vista. Any extra permits extra file storage on Vista.

Step 7

Click "Resize/Move" button. Click "Apply" button to save modifications.

Partitioning the Drive

Step 1

Turn off PC. Change GParted CD with Vista installation DVD. Start system.

Step 2

Choose language and click "Install Now."

Step 3

When page ask for "Product Key", push "Shift" and "F10" to run command line prompt.

Step 4

Type in diskpart and hit "Enter."

Step 5

Enter "list volume" and hit "Enter." There are choices same to that are in GParted window. Locate "NTSF" and see its volume number. It is probably "Volume 0."

Step 6

Type "select volume [#]", where "[#]" means volume number found in earlier step. Once more, many users type "choice volume 0."

Step 7

Enter "shrink" and hit "Enter." This will vacant space on partition to install Vista.

Step 8

Close command-line window.

Installing Vista

Step 1

Follow instructions to go on with Vista installation.

Step 2

When box shows asking where you want to install Vista, choose "unallocated space" and click "Next."

Step 3

Restart PC when installation has completed. Now you are having "Dual Boot" prompt, asking whether you want to start PC with Vista or other system. Vista Dual Boot setup is finish.