Is putting 2 windows OS in 1 pc/laptop a bad idea?

I was thinking of putting something like windows xp and windows 7 in a laptop

So i was going to create 2 partitions a small one ( about 35 gb) for windows xp, and the rest for windows 7.

I wanted to do this because of some things i like to use on xp operating systems which have some compatibility issues with windows 7, and i don't feel like carrying another laptop so i just wanted to have both OS in 1.

Then if i somehow get a virus in either one i can still use the other until i fix the issue in the other OS.

Any of you have a similar configuration? I was either thinking of doing that or having Linux/windows7 both.

 

No, its not a bad idea, although I would look into Windows 7 Pro and XP mode.

Just don't mix OSes on the same partition.

 

Personally I'd avoid XP Mode, not saying it's a bad idea but since it's a virtual machine itself I'd prefer to go for VMWare Player which is another virtual machine as well but has much better compatibility (for the matter VMWare Player even has great 3d Acceleration, I use it to run some games on it).

Since you mentioned linux alongside Windows 7, are you going to use this to run software or just keeping it in case your W7 system can't boot?

If that's the case I suggest using a portable version of linux, Puppy Linux is a small 150mb distro that is perfect to backup files from an unbootable Windows system.

Also there's Parted Magic which is designed specifically for many hard drive tasks, such as backups, partition modifications, cd burning and you can even browse the internet and download files. This special Linux version costs 5 dollars but don't let the small price scare you. I take this wherever I go when I do onsite PC repairs and it's been useful to me more than once.

Sorry for the long post

 

There is no reason to avoid XP Mode.

XP Mode is free for 7 pro users, whereas to legally use VMWare Player, you would need a license for XP.

This is the precise purpose of XP Mode.

 

Indeed, I brought it up cause OP seems to indicate that he already has an original XP Disc.

Like I said, it's not a bad idea. But if one owns a legal copy, VMWare is superior in terms of compatibility.