Install to same partition with existing OS

[kadman]

Hi,

I am trying to install Windows 2000 Server edition to a PC to provide dual boot with an existing OS.

During the installation process, I am left with only one partition to install the new OS. That partition also happens to contain the old OS.

1) What are the adverse effects if I continue with the installation?

2) How can I re-partition the hard disk if it contains existing data?

Thanks in advance.

 

[LahoriTech]

Bofore I answer to that, please be more specific what os u have currently installed on the hard drive. and what is current partion table look like, and also is it a raid volume?. and what is capacity of ur HD?. Just ans these and I will try to get you some where safely.

 

[kadman]

Thanks for your response.

Windows 2000 Professional (Japanese version) is currently installed in the hard drive. Since the OS is Japanese version, I can't upgrade directly to Windows 2000 Server (English version).

The hard drive is not raid volume.

The following is the partition table:
C:
9.53 GB NTFS

What is the best way to partition the hard drive to support 2 OS without erasing the existing files and programs?

 

[jpm121]

kadman, you could use a program like Partition Magic to dynamically change the size of the C: partition, then create a new partition in the blank space. I think you have to defrag first to cram all the stuff to one part of the disk, thus maximizing the available space for the new partition. Haven't done this for awhile.

Running 2 OSes in the same partition is an extraordinarily bad idea, since both will try to use common directories such as "Documents and Settings" and others.

Is it practical to just buy a new 40 gb hard drive and install the new OS there? Not sure where you're located but such small drives are less then $50 US.

 

[cpb72]

To begin with microsoft does not encourage to install a second o/s in the same partition.However as the other respondent suggest to use a third party program,you can also use the 2000 server cd to create a new partition during the installation process.During the installation process the setup ask you if you want to customize the setup.select the radio button which says "Iwant to select my own partition".Then the next screen the set displays the current configuration and allow you to change the partition.In your case there will be space for unformated space.Select that option and allow the setup to create a partition and format with ntfs and you are ready to go.All your settings from other o/s will be intact.Be carefull to read all the option the setup presented to you.Thanks.