While most personal computers use one operating system, it is possible to run two operating systems on them at the same time. This process is known as dual boot and allows users to switch between operating systems according to their needs.
Using Dual Boot on PCs is a relatively simple process and can be used on Windows, Mac and Linux systems. In this article, we will introduce you to the method of installing two operating systems in one computer.
What is Dual Boot?
Dual booting is a process by which you can run two operating systems simultaneously on one computer. This method can be a combination of operating systems, and for example, you can use Windows and Mac, Windows and Linux, or two special versions of Windows on a personal computer.
What is meant by dual boot?
Booting usually refers to starting or turning on the computer, but dual boot specifically refers to something called the Boot Manager; A small program that manages the motherboard.
When you turn on your computer, the power supply (PSU) first supplies the power needed by the motherboard, and the motherboard manages the other system components and keeps them together. If you’ve ever seen a black screen or text and possibly a logo after pressing the power button on your PC, before entering the Windows environment and displaying its logo, this is the part of the motherboard that tells you it’s on.
The motherboard checks all the different components connected to it, including the graphics card, optical drives (CD or DVD), and storage drives. Once the motherboard has determined the status of the system hardware, it knows that you are likely to decide to enter the operating system environment and will actually boot the computer into the operating system. To do this, the motherboard provides drive information to the boot manager.
A boot manager is software that can be run on a PC before the operating system is loaded. Boot Manager’s task is to identify the operating systems on your drives and launch the user’s desired option.
Most people who own a Windows PC or Mac have probably never worked with their system’s boot manager. Apple’s Bootcamp software is used to create dual boot Windows and Mac and offers its own boot menu to switch between operating systems. Otherwise, you should use the boot manager to switch between the operating systems installed on your PC.
Why and when to use dual boot?
The need for two operating systems simultaneously on a personal computer is mostly due to the fact that not all operating systems are able to meet all the needs of some users. While today’s modern operating systems cover most of people’s day-to-day needs, dual boot can be an ideal solution for those who need to use specialized programs or want to use and try other platforms without compromising their current operating system. .
Windows 11 is the latest and greatest version of Microsoft’s desktop operating system that offers great performance and a wide selection of apps and games. However, not all older apps offer these features. Some old games may not support new versions of Windows because every time a new version of this operating system is released, developers must optimize their programs and games for it, otherwise their programs or games may not work on the new version.
In such a situation, you may want to download Windows 7 or 10 along with Windows 11 or another operating system you are considering. Apple’s macOS is known for its very popular usability and features, and Linux is suitable for people who want full control over the operating system. Dual booting allows you to switch between operating systems whenever you want and get the most out of your computer.
Before any of the instructions in this guide, it is recommended to make a backup copy of your important files. You should put these files in a separate drive or use cloud storage services like Google Drive and OneDrive.
When installing new operating systems or repartitioning drives, there is always the possibility that Available data accidentally rewriting Or Delete and therefore it is better not to take risks and definitely to Backup Take action from them.
Dual boot two versions of Windows operating system
If you want to use older programs that cannot run on Windows 10 or 11, the ability to run Windows 7 alongside your current operating system can be useful. Dual booting using older versions of Windows 7 is also possible and the steps will be almost the same.
1. Get the desired version of Windows
If you’re using Windows 10 or 11 but need Windows 7, you’ll need to find or purchase a copy of the older operating system. Microsoft no longer sells or supports Windows 7, but it is possible to buy it through online stores or even download it through various sites. On the other hand, if you are using Windows 7 and want to install Windows 10 or 11 on it, you can buy it directly from Microsoft’s website.
2. Create bootable media
If your second version of Windows is on DVD, you can skip this step, otherwise you’ll need to use a drive or disc containing your operating system or a USB flash drive of at least 8GB.
Microsoft provides tools to download and create bootable media for different versions of Windows. For this purpose, you must download the desired tool and follow its instructions. In addition, you can read the above article to make a bootable flash.
3. Create your new Windows partition
The easiest and safest way to dual boot on desktop computers is to buy and install a new hard drive or SSD for the new operating system. In this way, you will not need to partition again. If you’re using a new drive to install the second version of Windows, you can skip step 4, otherwise you’ll need to make room on your current drive to install the new Windows.
Stage 1In Windows 10 or 11, right-click on the Windows icon in the taskbar and select Disk Manager. In older versions of Windows, this section is available in the Control Panel and the Computer Tools section.
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