Considering Linux (Help please)

[Shane]

Hi all,

Im considering using Linux,Maybe ubuntu or somthing similar.

But how would i safely install linux on the same hard drive as i have Xp home on?

I dont wonna lose Xp because its an OEM version and i do not have the instal disk so if i mess up i cannot install it again right?

I wonna keep Xp for games and Linux for everything else.

I currently have a Seagate barracude 120Gb hard drive which has Xp home on + a recovery partion.

My system specs...

AMD Sempron 2800+ @ 2Ghz
Asus A7V8X-LA
120Gb Seagate barracuda 7200Rpm, Ultra-ATA 100
Elixir 512mb DDR Pc3200
64mb Intergrated Via Unichrome
Lite-On Cd & Dvd writer combo
IDE-Dvd drive
Some floppy drive
Windows Xp home Sp2.

 

[red onion]

Good for you!

I would recommend either Suse 10.1, Ubuntu 6.06, or Kubuntu 6.06. all are good distributions.

You can use a tool like Partition Magic to repartition your HD. You would make your current partition smaller, and then create a new one for Linux.

I would recommend making a full backup, or a ghost image first.

The easy way would be to get a 10-20GB drive, and install Linux on that. No decrease in space, no worries about resizing partitions. HDs that size are available on eBay for almost giveaway prices. Cheaper than a copy of PM too!

During the install Linux will install a new boot loader on the Master Boot Record, and it will allow you to choose which OS to start at each reboot. Linux is usually very good about recognizing Windows. Just verify that Windows (or DOS) is an option when you get to the bootloader part of the install.

Have fun!

EDIT: You should be able to reinstall Windows via the copy on the recovery partition...that is why it is there

 

[Shane]

Thanks,

Im gonna attempt it now

Gonna go with Ubuntu 6.06.

Thanks for your help.