To make a running multi-boot configuration, install the previous edition of the Windows operating system earliest. Then, install all newer versions in order. All new Windows edition conserve backward compatibility for starting previous Windows versions.

To make a multi-boot configuration that contains Windows Vista, you ought to have at least one partition for each previous Windows edition that you install. Follow this common procedure:

• Make at least two partitions. Use one partition for the Windows Vista installation.

Note If the partition for Windows Vista is previously formatted, check that it is formatted by use of the NTFS file system. However, we suggest that you make use of one of the subsequent methods:

o Make the second unformatted partition.

o Do not make the second partition as well as leave the space as free space. Instead, create the second partition during the Windows Vista installation.

• If the computer does not have an operating system installed, install the oldest Windows version first.

Note Install Windows XP before you install Windows Server 2003.

• Run the Windows Vista Setup program. Install Windows Vista in the free space or in the existing partition. You can run this Setup program in the earlier Windows version, or you can start the computer when the Windows Vista disc is in the CD or DVD drive.

After Windows Vista Setup finishes, you will have a correctly-configured, multi-boot environment that includes Windows Vista and the earlier versions of Windows. The Bootmgr boot menu that look like the following menu:

Microsoft Windows Earlier Windows Operating System