I disagree.
First, for the actual novice with little technical knowledge of computers, running a virtual machine can be challenging. That also adds yet another layer of things to learn--not a bad idea, necessarily, but very intimidating to many neophytes.
Second, the performance is worse than running natively. If anything, you would actually do better to run Windows in a virtual machine hosted by Linux.
Third, many distributions have an option to install inside Windows already, making the process easier than installing a separate app like Virtual Box.
I have run dual boot systems for years with very few issues involved. With today's installers, it really isn't a big deal--and if the steps are followed as I outlined them earlier, they are darned near foolproof. (Besides, the maintenance of the Windows box involved in defragmenting and cleaning up the registry will also tend to make Windows itself run much better.)
I do agree that running the live CD first is a very good idea--and with most distros today, the standard download *is* the liver CD image. However, support for the machine's hardware isn't always a given between the live CD and a direct install. I had several machines which worked fine with the live CD, but which wound up being tricky to get the sound working on the direct install. Fortunately, that hasn't been a problem in about a year and a half--and I have since changed machines anyway.
David
--- In LINUX_Newbies@yahoogroups.com, "m" <m_alexander61@...> wrote:
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> I don't want to stomp on anyone's advice but I recommend using Virtual Box before even thinking of setting up a dual-boot.
> Using Virtual Box, Windows will boot normally and then VBox can be run. Once the other OS (Linux in this case) is installed within VBox it only runs in the virtual machine, therefore there is no need to worry about partitioning the physical drive of the computer nor backing up files in case of a problem since Linux will only be running in the virtual machine.
> Also, I believe that we have neglected to emphasize the best starting point for a newbie- running the Live version of the distro first to check for compatibility (and the selection of available goodies) before even installing the OS in a virtual machine, let alone a dual-boot configuration. It will run slowly (running "live"), even more so than Windows, but a bit of patience will pay off heavily. You will be able to ensure that the distro recognizes your sound- and video-cards as well as your wifi, plus get a feel for the distro. If you don't like it or it doesn't run perfectly, there are many many more. Mint and Ubuntu are still, to my knowledge, the best for hardware recognition.
> Lastly I would like to add my vote for Mint as the best distro for a newbie, especially since it is one that many people stick with even after trying dozens of others. Puppy is OK, definitely worth checking out if you don't care for Mint or Ubuntu, but it's pretty boring IMHO.
> OK, truly lastly, welcome to the group and congrats on making one of the greatest decisions you will ever make, with regard to computers at least.
> Mark
> --- In LINUX_Newbies@yahoogroups.com, "grantrocket2" <mars_rover@> wrote:
> >
> > Ok the sun viritual box is used to have 2 operating systems running at once. So linux mint would be running inside windows. This will obviosly cut down on preformance.
> > You mentioned linux mint, this is what I use and it is one of the most "newbe" freindly o/s out there. (my opinion)
> > To safely partition your drive, first turn your computer off.
> > Put in the linux mint 10 disk and boot from it.
> > Select start linux mint, in a few minutes the o/s will be running from the disk. No changes have been made to your computer yet.
> > On the desktop click the "install linux mint" icon.
> > It asks you a few questions about where you live and such. When it gets to the partitioning part, this is where it gets REALLY easy.
> > Just drag the slider to give more or less room for windows and linux.
> > I recomend atleast 40gb for linux, this will fit your o/s and your files confortably.
> > Continue with the instalation and the installer will walk you through it.
> > It will install in about 10 to 15 min.
> > Once it is done shutdown your computer and remove the disk.
> > Turn your computer on, when it turns on you will have the option to select windows or linux. Select linux and start having fun.
> >
> > As for the broadcom wireless chip, chances are it will support it. Support for broadcom has come a LONG way since the old kernal. Most web posts are about the old one. Mint i think has the largest preinstalled selection of drivers. If it doesent' work right out of the box. Feel free to post another question here.
> >
> > --- In LINUX_Newbies@yahoogroups.com, "younger.matthew" <younger.matthew@> wrote:
> > >
> > > Hi, I am totally new to the Linux OS. I have an HP Pavilion Dv4 Laptop that has windows 7 on it. I really do not like Windows. I hear that Linux is supposed to be a good OS. I do not know where to start. I want Linux. I would probably go with Mint since it runs so good with the Sun virtual box. I need to keep windows. CANNOT risk ANY data loss. I know there is a way to partition the Hard Drive to Run both OS but do not know how to do it and it sounds a little risky. Also... I am aware that the Broadcam wireless adapter that is built in to my laptop might not work. This is a big drawback. Is there a solution for this? If not then I have a linksys wireless usb thing that plugs into the computer that might work. But I'd rather have the one that is built in. I need a lot of description! I have NEVER used Linux ever! I hope that there is a Linux genius out there that can help me.
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