In this guide I explain to you what methods you have at your disposal to have two operating systems on one PC.
In this guide I am going to show you all the options you have at your disposal to have two operating systems on one PC . Each section includes tips and guidelines so that when you start your machine, you have several options to choose from. Likewise, I mention the benefits of each of the procedures that I propose . Discover what are the alternatives available to carry out this process effectively. Do not miss it!
Index of contents
Install two operating systems on a PC with dual boot
Dual boot is a system that allows you to install two operating systems on a PC and choose one of them during boot. Thus, when you turn on your computer, a list will appear with all the systems on the computer and, for a few seconds, you will be able to choose which one you want to start . If you don’t do this, the one that has been configured as the default will start.
Dual boot offers the possibility of having two Windows installations, as well as one of Windows and one of Linux. You can actually install as many systems as you want with this system. The limit is set by your storage unit and the number of partitions you can make, obtaining enough space for each installation.
How to install two operating systems on a PC with dual boot? Actually, it’s quite simple. All you have to do is follow the usual steps for installing each system. For example, most Linux distributions offer the possibility of being installed alongside Windows. The installer itself is responsible for partitioning the disk.
On the contrary, if you want to have two Windows , you must create the partition first and then proceed with the installation. You do well to consult the guide on how to install Windows 11 , which will help you once you have created a partition to host the new system.
Advantages of this proposal
These are the two main advantages of dual boot
- Superior performance for each installation , since each one runs natively on the computer’s hardware.
- Separate space for each operating system , as it is stored within a separate partition or even on another drive.
And what are the disadvantages? Well, you are going to have to apply advanced modifications to your unit and deal with installations on the computer itself. If something goes wrong, you may need to reset your PC.
Two systems on one PC with virtual machines
Another possibility to have two systems on one PC is to do it with a virtual machine . With this methodology, specialized software, such as VirtualBox , will be in charge of creating a virtual space that simulates a complete computer . In other words, all the hardware of a PC will be emulated in a closed environment using software.
In a virtual machine you can install practically any operating system . It is an idea way to have another Windows to test, several Linux distributions to learn the benefits of each one or even an instance of macOS
Advantages of this method
Having two operating systems on a PC using virtual machines has these advantages:
- Isolated space . The operating system that you install in the virtual machine does not have access to the main operating system and, therefore, the changes you make do not affect your computer.
- Possibility of testing many systems . You can create as many virtual machines as you want and, in this way, test different systems.
- It’s free . VirtualBox is one of the best virtualization platforms. The best thing is that it is open source and does not cost a single euro.
And what about performance? Well, the truth is that, if you have enough resources, with a virtual machine you will be able to work without problems. You must keep in mind that, when virtualizing a system, you give part of your computer’s power to this second emulated computer.
More modest PCs will have a hard time keeping both systems running, but those with greater power will allow you to execute tasks on both at the same time with ease.
Run two operating systems on one PC by installing one on a USB
Installing an operating system on a USB is a way to have two systems on your computer, but without modifying the current installation. The best way to achieve this is with Rufus , which allows you to install Windows To Go on an external memory drive. It is also capable of creating a bootable USB with persistent memory with a Linux USE.
Advantages of this method
There are two notable advantages of opting for this method:
- Portability . Having an operating system installed on a pendrive allows you to run it on any computer. For example, you could go to the library and access your system by booting from USB.
- Does not harm the current system . With this system you do not endanger the current installation of your equipment.
And the disadvantages? Well, the main disadvantage of this method has to do with performance. If you run Windows or Linux from a slow pendrive, you will have a hard time working with the system. Therefore, I recommend that you do it only on the most modern drives, which have USB 3.0 or higher and as much writing and reading speed as possible.
And you, what option to have two operating systems on a PC do you think is the most convenient? In the comments space you can express your opinion. The Professional Review community awaits you.
