Many users are still more accustomed and more convenient to use the old, but proven operating system Windows XP, rather than newer options. This is especially common for those who received Vista together with a computer or laptop. It is quite possible to make these two systems "get along" on one computer.
Instructions
Step 1
Most often, the Windows Vista installation disc is missing. Therefore, the first step is to create a file with boot settings for two operating systems. Windows XP, like an older system, removes the Vista boot loader files during installation. In order not to create unnecessary difficulties, it is convenient to configure everything you need in advance, before installing the system. Launch Command Prompt or Console. To do this, press Win + R and type cmd.
Step 2
When the console window opens, type bcdedit / create {ntldr} / d "WinXP". Anything in quotes is used for your convenience only to denote the system in the bootloader, so you can use arbitrary text. Next, enter the command that will determine the location of the XP boot loader: bcdedit / set {ntldr} device partition = C:
Step 3
The following command will specify the name of the boot loader: bcdedit / set {ntldr} path / ntldr. Enter the bcdedit / displayorder {ntldr} -addlast command, it determines in which order to display systems at boot, that is, add a Windows XP entry to the end of the Vista boot loader. These steps need to be done with "Administrator" rights, so use the appropriate account.
Step 4
Next, you need to create or clear a partition where Windows XP will be installed. It is best if it is the next partition after the system drive. Open computer management. This can be done from the context menu of the computer or by typing the command compmgmt.msc in the command line, which is invoked by the Win + R combination.
Step 5
Select "Disk Management". You will see a list of your logical disk partitions. Create a new partition in the unallocated area, or format an existing disk. Remember that formatting will delete the information from the partition, please handle carefully. When creating a section, indicate that this will be the main section.
Step 6
Boot from the Windows XP installation disc. Run the system installation as usual. The only difference is that as the partition for the installation, use the second partition that you created in the Disk Control Panel. Remember that on the first partition you have Vista installed.
Step 7
After installation, when Windows XP boots up, download the bootsect.exe utility - you will need it to repair the Vista boot loader. Copy this program to a separate folder, for example boot on the D: drive and run Command Prompt (Win + R). In the console, type D: followed by cd boot, and type D: / boot / bootsect.exe / NT60 All. Reboot. You will see a boot menu for two operating systems, select the one you need and use.
