Normally it is not possible to install Windows XP with Windows 7 installed first (dual boot). You need to install Windows XP first and then install Windows 7. But, you can install Windows XP over existing Windows 7 without affecting your Windows 7 installation; here is how you do it.
This tutorial is very simple, so any one can try this, if you have a copy of Windows 7 and Windows XP CD in hand. The only additional software required is EasyBCD utility (free) that you can download here.
- In your Windows 7 machine, insert Windows XP CD and install it (If your Windows 7 is installed in C: drive, then install the Windows XP on any other drive, for example D: drive).
- Then, restart your system and you’ll see that it boots directly into Windows XP.
- Now, you’ll have to restore your Windows 7. Insert Windows 7 DVD and boot from it.
- Select “Repair your computer” option and Let the repairing finish and your system will reboot into Windows 7.
- Now install EasyBCD and run it. Click on the ‘Add New Entries’ tab and choose Windows tab. Select Type as ‘Windows NT/2k/XP/2k3’.
- Name the entry to your liking (for example Windows XP) and click ‘Add Entry ‘button to save the settings.
- After restarting you’ll see the dual-boot option, with Windows 7 and Windows XP as the two options.
Hope you’ll enjoy this tutorial (via)
