Use 2 operating systems at the same time - how it works
If you want to use 2 operating systems at the same time, you can do this in different ways. We show you two simple options.
Use 2 operating systems at the same time - this is how you proceed
In order to install two operating systems on one hard disk, some preliminary work is necessary:
- You should back up important data first.
- Now you have to partition your hard drive. Under Windows you can do this with on-board equipment. If a free partition with sufficient storage space is already available, this step is not necessary.
- Alternatively, you can use the GParted Live tool. You can find detailed instructions with a photo gallery for both versions here.
- After partitioning, restart your PC and boot from the medium on which the operating system to be installed is located. Select the newly created, empty partition for installation.
- It is best to always install the older version first and only then the new version of an operating system.
- The installation now runs as usual.
- From now on you will be asked which operating system you want to run each time the system is started.
Use 2 operating systems simultaneously with a virtual machine
This is behind it: A virtual machine runs on your current operating system and simulates another PC. Since the required hardware is only emulated, no partitioning is required. You can use a second operating system on the virtual machine. The systems run separately from each other. Here's how to install the second operating system:
- Download and install the free VirtualBox software. Alternatively, the program is also available for Mac OS and Linux.
- Open VirtualBox and click on "New" to create a virtual machine. Please note here that RAM equipment and storage space are not too small. The best way to do this is to orientate yourself to the minimum requirements of the operating system to be installed.
- Click on "Start" and select a medium. If you have an installation CD, select your CD / DVD drive. Otherwise you can also use an ISO image by clicking on the folder icon.
- After installation, you can fully use and save the second operating system. You can switch between host and guest systems by pressing the host button. By default, this is the right [CTRL] key.
In our test run, VirtualBox 4.3.8 was operated under Windows 7 and Damn Small Linux 4.4.10 was installed as the second operating system.