How to Config for dual boot.

I need to partition a Windows XP Computer to Run Win 98 in a dual boot setup.Windows xp is the only operating system in use now.This is on the only partion avail. C: (NTFS).I do not want to lose any of this data.After backing up how to I go about splitting this current partition into 2 partitions and installing win 98(FAT32) on the second partition.What's the best way to go about this?
Thanks

 

I would suggest using free utility from your HDD manufacture to set up your HDD, by setup I mean Format & Partition use Advance Mode to make multiple partition with different file systems, Fat/NTFS
A few are: WD is Data Lifeguard Tool's, Maxtor is MaxBlast, Segate is SeaTools, they may have updated or have slightly different names?? regardless the Utilities are available & are free, I think you can even download here at MG front page

Windows 98 should be installed on the first partition, then install XP on the second.

The oldest OS is installed first, on the first partition.
An OS needs to be installed on a Primary Partition, you can have up to 4 Primary Partitions on a single HDD

Note by default the last OS installed will boot first but you can choose on screen to boot to either & once in windows any OS you can change the default booting OS in System Properties/Advanced/Start up & recovery

Also note Formating you will loose all data so back up all important data on another HDD/CD/DVD whatever

The above way is free, IMO the easiest but will reqiure your XP to be reinstalled.

You might be able to use a paid program like Partition Magic but even with that 98 likes to be on the first partiton & installed first
If an older OS ( 98 ) is installed second or lattor I'd expect boot problems on the previous OS or OS's

 

hi zephra!
i agree with asus, you would have 2 troubles:
1)split partitions and shift from NFTS to FAT32
2)if you don't use some kind of boot loaders, you will have to install win98 first and then winXP.

concluding all this points, i advice you to look narrowly to Disk Director Suite by acronis, it's a partition prog, and allow you to install as many os's as you want without any problems.