Fixing Dual Boot Problems with XP x64 and Vista x64
I've been running both XP x64 and Vista x64 in a dual boot scenario on my Ferrari 4005 laptop. It runs well, and I love it. BUT, every time I re-install a new Vista build, I run into problems. Should I do an upgrade (usually not a good idea) or a fresh install. And if it's a fresh install, should I format the partition. Well, this last time, I formatted the partition (C:). Which worked fine for getting in to Vista, but I lost my access to Windows XP Professional x64 Edition. Bummer. Here's what I had to do to fix it.
- boot from XP x64 CD
- select Repair Console
- select XP x64 as the Windows to boot to.
- enter administrator password
- run fixboot
- run bootcfg /rebuild
- Say yes to add the XP x64 to the boot list
- Enter an identifier for it
- Blank for OS Load Options
- cd D:\
- copy nt*.* c:\
- exit
- reboot - you're now in XP x64
- run easyBCD
- click Manage Bootloader
- check Reinstall
- Click Write
- Exit
- Reboot
Also, see my earlier blog post on multi-boot in general.
Update: Darrell suggests a link to Knowledge Base article 919259 would be a useful addition, and I agree. Title is: 919529 Windows Vista no longer starts after you install an earlier version of the Windows operating system in a dual-boot configuration
Thanks, Darrell
Charlie.