Installing Linux

I have a Dell Laptop that has barely been used and runs on Windows XP, so basically since Windows stop supporting XP I haven't use it.

I'm going back and forth between installing/upgrading Windows 10 or Linux (free). Have never installed a OS so that is just a bit scary. My main question is can I install Linux and Windows XP as a dual boot. I have a few programs that I am sure will only run on XP and I don't want to lose those.

Would this be a difficult process? I been reading tutorials on partitioning the space for a additional OS and that part doesn't look that difficult.

 

Re: Questions about Windows 10

Yes you can install Linux on a new partition and dual boot with XP. i strongly recommend that you create a backup image of your XP drive before installing Linux as going back to straight XP (if you dislike Linux for some reason) can be tricky after installing Linux because of Linux's boot loader.

To dual boot XP and Win 10, you'd need to purchase a retail copy of Win 10 with a Product Key. But first, you'd need to make sure your computer is capable of running Win 10. The current Technical Preview releases don't detect previous versions of installed Windows for some reason. I partitioned my Win 8.1 drive and installed Win 10 TP on the new partition. When I boot up, only Win 10 boots. There's no way to choose between Win 10 or Win 8.1.

If you had Win 7 or Win 8.1 already installed, you could have reserved your free copy of Win 10 and began receiving the upgrade on July 29th (insiders get first divvy).

As far as the programs that will only run under XP, they can be run in compatibility mode in Win 10. In fact, Win 10 may automatically apply compatibility settings.

 

Re: Questions about Windows 10

mdonah

Thanks so much for the information.

I think Linux is the way to go. I haven't upgraded due to being on a limited income and have heard a great deal of positive things about Linux. Purchasing a product key for Win10 is just out of the question right now. I will do as you suggested and create the backup image of XP.

Any suggestion on which free version of Linux to install?

 

Re: Questions about Windows 10

Firstly, I downloaded Ubuntu and burned the ISO to a CD. Then I installed Ubuntu "inside" Windows - no partitioning or anything else to do. When I started the PC, I selected either Ubuntu or Windows XP.
Removing Ubuntu was done from Windows XP's Add or remove Programs.

Secondly, Ubuntu and Linux Mint are 2 of the more popular Linux distros.

 

Re: Questions about Windows 10

How does one install Linux "inside" Windows? Doesn't Linux use GRUB loader and doesn't that affect the boot sector?

 

Re: Questions about Windows 10

Here you go.

 

Re: Questions about Windows 10

Eldon thanks so much for the information. I had researched both of these and it seems like the way to go.

No having to partion is better yet. Less work.

I think I'll install Ubuntu this weekend and hope that I don't screw it up somehow.

 

Re: Questions about Windows 10

I can vouch for "Install inside Windows" because I did it. And uninstalling from Add or remove Programs, completely removed Ubuntu. Windows XP was back to normal.
Good luck and keep us posted. :major

PS In case you missed it, here's a link to the Linux support forum.

http://www.linuxforums.org/

 

Re: Questions about Windows 10

Thanks for the link.

I will keep you posted and hopefully it will go smoothly.

 

Re: Questions about Windows 10

One more question before I attempt this install.

What are the benefits/or issues when installing Ubuntu vs Linux (Cinnamon)?

I downloaded the Ubuntu and have it ready to install.

 

Re: Questions about Windows 10

I did the installs 4-5 years ago. As I remember, there was little difference between the two. Linux Mint had more programs bundled than Ubuntu. Any program you need can always be downloaded - for free.

Here's an article all about Ubuntu after installation.

http://www.techsupportalert.com/content/tips-and-tricks-ubuntu-after-installation-ubuntu-1204.htm

 

Re: Questions about Windows 10

Thanks so much and the link is filled with great information.

I think I'll stick with the Ubuntu and as you said if there is something I need I can download it for free.

Will let you know how it goes.

Again, thanks.

 

Re: Questions about Windows 10

Sorry!
Can you move it to the correct place.

If not, can you close the thread and I will PM Eldon with my results.

As I was debating about Windows 10 I thought this was the correct place to post you question for help and information. As people are debating the pros and cons on Windows 10 and whether to install or not I posted it here.

Again. Sorry.

 

Re: Questions about Windows 10

Thank you.