Dual Booting XP for File Access: How to Create a Partition Without Losing Data

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the challenges of dual booting Windows XP to access files from a malfunctioning system without losing data. Participants explore methods for creating a partition on the hard drive without formatting it, as well as alternative solutions for file recovery.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes their situation with a virus-infected Windows XP system and expresses the need to dual boot to recover files before transitioning to Linux.
  • Another participant suggests using the GParted LiveCD to create partitions without formatting the drive, providing a link to the software.
  • A participant raises concerns about the size of the LiveCD and considers using a LiveUSB instead, questioning whether GParted will allow them to view the contents of their drive without partitioning.
  • One participant proposes an alternative method of removing the hard drive from the old computer and connecting it as a slave to the new laptop for easier file transfer.
  • A later reply mentions difficulties with using a program called Clone Maxx and updates that GParted successfully recognized their external hard drive for file copying.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple approaches to the problem, with no consensus on the best method for accessing files or creating partitions. Some suggest using GParted, while others propose physical transfer methods, indicating a variety of opinions on how to proceed.

Contextual Notes

Participants express limitations related to internet speed affecting their ability to download necessary software, and there are unresolved questions about the effectiveness of different methods for accessing files.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals facing similar issues with dual booting, data recovery from malfunctioning systems, or those interested in partitioning drives without data loss may find this discussion relevant.

binzing
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Recently my computer got some sort of virus, and now when I try to start it, it'll make it to the Windows XP loading screen and then blue screen and restart. I have since then got a new one, which was much needed anyways, but I didn't get all of my files backed up. I have been told by my cousin, who is very good with computers, as am I, that it's possible to dual boot two versions of XP, I have the original restore CDs, so I'm set there. I'd like to do this, access and copy my files, then wipe the drive and make it into a Linux laptop. Problem is, how can I make a partition for this dual boot, WITHOUT formatting the drive and losing all my data. I've looked up some of these programs on the web, but they are all ridiculously expensive, as I'd likely only use it once. I have also been told that you can use a Linux install CD to make the partition, which I have one of (Ubuntu) but not with me currently. I do not have highspeed, so downloading something is restricted to it being less and a few Mbs. What is the best option? Thanks so much in advance.
 
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Hey
To make partitions on a harddisk without formatting the disk you can download the gparted livecd. It is basically a small linux cd containing the software gparted.
http://gparted.sourceforge.net/livecd.php"
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Alright, will check it out thanks!
 
Ugh, I looked at it, and the LiveCD is 52 megs. I opted for the LiveUSB which is half that, but still huge for dialup. Do you think that I will be able to see the contents of my drive from gparted? Cause then I wouldn't even need to partition.
 
Does your new laptop have a open HD bay? many do. If so, pull the HD out of the old computer and put it in as a slave on the new system. Now you can transfer files easily.

Once you get what you want, repartition and format, now you have more HD space.
 
What? Since when do they have two HDD bays? Anyways, I don't think so. I got a program called Clone Maxx, but it wouldn't work with my external harddrive attached to my old laptop. I'm now at my neighbors with high speed and will try downloading gparted again. Thanks
 
Well, I downloaded gparted, and as I am very happy to say, it recognized my external hard drive, and is in the process of copying my old one to my external. Cross your fingers. Thanks both of you.
 

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