How to Change the Dual Boot Order on Vista

When you set up a Windows computer for dual boot, you are installing two or more operating systems on the computer and can choose which one to load when the computer starts. The operating systems may be two different versions of Windows, or they could be Windows and another operating system such as Linux. One of the operating systems is considered the default, and will automatically load if you do not choose to load another installed operating system. The default operating system and boot order of a dual boot system can be changed in Windows Vista with the "msconfig" utility or by changing system properties.

Instructions

MSConfig

1. Click the Windows "Start" button and type "msconfig" in the search field at the bottom of the panel. Press the "Enter" key.

2. Click the "Boot" tab in the "System Configuration" application. All installed operating systems are displayed in the window. Click an operating system to highlight it and click the "Set As Default" button.

3. Click the "Make All Boot Settings Permanent" check box. Click "OK."

4. Click the "Restart" button to immediately restart your computer with the new dual boot order. Click "Exit Without Restart" to return to the desktop. The new dual boot order will take effect the next time your reboot your computer.

System Properties

1. Click the Windows "Start" button and right-click "Computer." Select "Properties" from the context menu.

2. Select the "Advanced" tab in the "System Properties" window. If prompted, enter your administrator password. Click the "Settings" button beside "Startup and Recovery."

3. Choose a default operating system from the "Default Operating System" drop-down menu. Click "OK."

References

• Microsoft: Change the Default Operating System for Startup

Resources

• Microsoft: Install More Than One Operating System (Multiboot)