Dual boot Linux and Windows 7

The1nonly1 · 4 Nov 2012 at 22:22

I want to dual boot these two OS's but they will be on separate hard drives. I have Windows 7 on my 2TB and Linux Mint will be on my 500GB. I am running Windows now, would the safest way to install Linux on the 500gb drive is to disconnect my 2TB drive and then install Linux on the 500GB so it doesn't mess up the MBR on my Windows drive?

After this is done how would I be able to choose which OS to boot into?

SMN · 5 Nov 2012 at 00:23

F12 generally

The1nonly1 · 5 Nov 2012 at 19:05

So i wouldnt need anything like GRUB or easybcd? I dont want these as ive never had good experiences with them

cb_linus · 5 Nov 2012 at 19:18

Pretty sure you need Grub, just install it on the Linux hard-drive (Windows drive disconected if you prefer) and tell your pc to default boot from the Linux hard-drive.

You'll need to tell Grub about Windows when you reconnect the Windows hard-drive but just post if you have any problems. That way you can have your Windows hard-drive is completely untouched by the Linux install process and you have a fallback option of just booting the Windows hard-drive if you have any problems

edit: F12 to select the boot drive if you prefer that option but you'll still need Grub (or Lilo or whatever equivelent) to boot Linux unless I'm completely mistaken

The1nonly1 · 8 Nov 2012 at 19:25

Thanks for the information. I'll disconnect my windows drivE when I instal Linux

Steveocee · 11 Nov 2012 at 09:56

Best way is to disconnect the W7 drive as you already have mentioned so the MBR is not affected. Install your linux on the other drive then it should be a case of hitting f12 (or equivalent) for boot options.