xp pro + 2003 server dual boot question

Question

Hi,

I want to set-up my new precision workstation to have xp pro and 2003 server in a dual boot set-up. I've not done this before and wondered if someone could give me an idea of how and where to start ? I have full versions of both OS and xp pro is currently installed.

I've had a look around other forums and realise I need to partition the drive and install server on that. How do/should I partition ? can I do that when setting up 2003 server install ? or should I use 'partition magic' as many seem to advise ?

If someone is familiar with this sort of process, please spend a few minutes expalining to me, much appreciated.

jmwills · Answer

What machine are you using?  The only problem you will have will be to find the correct drivers for 2K3 for your system.  Why have a Server and XP as a dual boot system?

jsltd · Answer

Hi jm,

Thanks for replying.

I want to be able to have dual boot basically so I can get to know xp pro and also use the 2k3 server for development work (vb.net, .net framework visual studio etc). As this is the set-up I have on my hosting providers server (w2k with .net framework) I'd like to develop in the same environment.

I've not used xp in any shape or form, still on w2k pro. I'm off work for the next few years and want to to focus on my own learining and development of OS amongst other things. Thats why I'd like to have dual boot with these OS.

I hear your comment re drivers. Do you mean drivers for the 'system' such as cd drive, monitors (I'm using dual monitors on the same machine, already configured with xp pro), is there a distinct lack of driver support for these kind of devices on 2k3 ?

your further input is much appreciated.

jmwills · Answer

No lack of diver support for 2003 depending on what type of machine you intend to depoly it on.  Most of the time, the XP drivers will work unless you have some wired hardware requirement.

jsltd · Answer

great, so back to my original question, can you advise on the partition, formatting set-up etc.

jmwills · Answer

Since XP is already installed, you will need some sort of 3rd party partitioning program such as Partition Magic which I recommend. You will need to change the size of your root directory (C:\) to around 15 gigs or so to accomodate XP and your programs.

Create another partition to hold your data and a third partition for the Server platform. The server OS will recognize the XP partition and will ask you whether or not you want to delete that partition. Answer no and install the server on the E partition (providing you rename all the partitions logically).

There's really nothing to it more than that.

Windows General

xp pro + 2003 server dual boot question

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