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Dual boot Vista - Printable Version

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Dual boot Vista - marnav1 - 05-07-2015

Hi all. Want to dual boot Linux Lite with Windows Vista on an HP Pavilion DV6. Got the BIOS changed to boot from DVD/CD and that part went fine. However when it came to installing it on the drive there was no option for install Linux Lite next to Windows. It was erase Windows completely (which I would like but it isn't my PC lol) or the do something else option basically and I don't know how to partition a drive. I am using a fresh download of Linux Lite 2.4 32 bit. Thanks ahead of time. Smile

Re: Dual boot Vista - gold_finger - 05-07-2015

When that happens, it usually means Windows is already using 4 partitions on the drive.  To be sure, boot computer again with live LL DVD.  When up and running, go to Menu -> System -> Partition Drives to open the GParted program.  Then take a screenshot of the GParted window -- either hit <PrtScn> key, or go to Menu -> Accessories -> Screenshot.  Then follow directions here to post it to the forum for us to see.  Once we see screenshot, we'll advise you on how to proceed.

While waiting for a response back, boot into Windows and do the following to prepare for the LL installation:
  • Make a set of recovery DVD's for the operating system.  There should be a built-in program allowing you to do that.
  • In Windows disk manager, defragment the "C:drive".
  • After defragmenting, use disk manager to shrink the "C:drive" to make room for LL.  Leave the space completely unformatted.  Do not attempt to create any new partitions for Linux.  You'll need to decide how much space you want to allot for LL, but try to give yourself at least 20-30GB for that.
P.s.  If having issues trying to post the screenshot, try renaming it to something simple instead of using the time-stamp formatted name issued automatically by the screenshot program.  (Right-click it and choose "Rename".)  Sometimes that naming format causes problems with uploads.

P.s.s.  Noticed in your signature "GPU:  unsure what GPU is".  GPU = Graphics Processing Unit.  To find out what graphics card your machine is running, open a terminal while booted into your LL DVD and enter this command:
Code:
inxi -G


Re: Dual boot Vista - newtusmaximus - 05-07-2015

I had real problems trying to dual boot when I was on Vista.  I would back up all your working/data files  ( to another external hard drive if possible) as well before trying to follow GF's guidance above.