Linux/ xp dual boot?

Question

I have allready set up my windows xp w @ least 4 partitions on a raid zero. I would like to know how I would install a free distro on one of the others as well as use one of the remaining partitions for file redundancy ( i.e ) a common home folder between all of my drives that i can pull from or drag and drop to so that no matter what might happen I can access important files such as resumees and baby pics that sort of thing.

representation of what im talking about

C:/ Windows install 65G partion
C:/My docs/ important stuff
D:/ Raw 65G Partion

Planing on using as an internal/external HDD w.
C:/My docs/ important stuff
E:/Home folder/ my docs important stuff

E:/ Free linux Distro ?X?
E:/home/mydocs/important stuff

F:/ Different free distro ?X?


(I am only really going to use the linux Distros to learn from/ use as a failsafe to protect my files/ (I.E.) windows doesnt like my raid setup any more and I want to get my baby pics)

Thank you

Answer 1

you should be able to just install linux on one of the unused partitions it should recognize the windows partition an ask you if you want to keep it. also you can run a live cd such as knoppix (runs totaly from cd/dvd) or install linux on a usb flash drive see attached link. http://www.pendrivelinux.com/

Answer 2

attempt booting into risk-free mode and then run chkdsk . whenever you resize a wonowz partition you should run it two times . the final thank you to do twin boot is a million- installation residing house windows (whether it is not already on it) 2- boot the linux distro and run the installer . 3- from the installer you are able to set up the partitions or have the installer do the partitioning for you, in simple terms chosen "installation factor by using factor". installation grub so as which you are going to have a manner of finding out on your os besides into . as quickly as your completed then run the chkdsk to get windowz besides . in case you are able to not get into risk-free mode then use an xp disc to do the chkdsk from the restore determination (see google lol)

Answer 3

First install windows for required size ofter you can install Linux on unused physical disk.why because it has the capacity to read FAT/NTFS where windows not having the capability to read the Linux .Then you can keep your any formatted files in wins and at the same time you want to work with Linux you can work on it.But only one work can do at a time

Answer 4

Try the given link. Check if it helps. If not try posting your query there and they will definitely help you out. They are into promoting GNU/Linux and other OSS