How to Use NTLDR
NTLDR is a small executable program for Windows that tells a computer where to find and load the operating system. It is used only with versions of Windows NT, 2000 and XP. NTLDR can launch operating systems other than Windows.
NTLDR is most often encountered by non-programmers when it fails to load Windows. For information on fixing a missing or damaged NTLDR in WinXP, see the link below to an excellent eHow article.
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Things You'll Need
- Intel or compatible computer with Windows XP At least a 20 GB hard drive Linux operating system (in this case, Ubuntu)
Instructions
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Install Windows XP (if it's not already installed) on the target PC. Use an "expendable" system, if possible, for learning and experimentation.
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Back up all personal documents, photos and other pertinent data if the target PC is a work or home system. Be certain to back up all users. As a safety precaution, verify your backup data before continuing.
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Place your Ubuntu install disc in your CD/DVD drive. Reboot the computer to the CD/DVD and follow the installation instruction prompts.
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Choose the "Dual Boot" selection when presented with the installation options menu. This assumes the system defaults to WinXP but gives the user the option of booting to Ubuntu.
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Continue the installation of Ubuntu. Pay close attention to the partitioning routines. Don't short the Windows drive by giving too much space to Linux--and vice versa. Make sure each operating system has more than the minimum drive space required to operate. Check each program's documentation to find the minimum requirements.
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Reboot the system upon completion. The operating system selection menu, called up by NTLDR, will now offer a choice of currently loaded operating systems. A countdown timer ticks off the seconds for you to choose until the default system loads.
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Tips & Warnings
Use the latest version of Ubuntu to ensure hardware compatibility. Install any late-model version of Linux on a spare computer for experimentation.
Have backup/reinstall software for WinXP before attempting a dual-boot system. For AMD processors, you must get the proper Linux package for the specific CPU, particularly if it's 64-bit.
