How to Dual Boot Mac OS X and Windows

Historically, computer users have had to choose between running the Mac OS X operating system and Microsoft Windows. However, this is no longer the case. Because OSX is now designed to run on the same Intel chips that Windows does, installing both operating systems on the same computer, to be switched between at will by the average user, is easier than ever. To do this, no special tools are required, just both operating systems, a good plan,and the right knowledge. What follows should help anyone interested in dual booting Mac OSX and Windows.

Step 1 - Setting Up

To save both a Mac and Windows operating system on the same computer, and you do not have multiple hard drives, you will need to partition your hard drive.

If have multiple hard drives, either external or internal, you may choose to skip this step (though you may not want to, as running your operating system from an external hard drive is not ideal). If  this is the case, skip to step [ADD LATER ARARHGHL]

First, you will need to get ready to partition. Make a complete backup of everything on your hard drive — or at least files you cannot replace, such as things you have worked on, or data with personal significance, such as photos. Next, tell your computer to partition your hard drive. If you are running a Windows operating system, this will involve right-clicking on My Computer, and selecting "manage." From there, you can create a new partition on the drive you select. If you are running a Mac OS, you will have to open up Disk Utility instead.

It is likely that you may have to reformat your hard drive in order to partition it. If that is not the case, great. However, if you must reformat, remember that reformatting your hard drive will erase it completely and irreversibly, so be sure you have backed up everything before doing this. If you have to reformat your drive, you will have to reinstall your original system as well.

When partitioning, remember to leave at least enough space for both an operating system and any data you will want to store in both partitions.

Step 2 - Installing

Presumably, you already have one operating system installed, either Mac or Windows, or you would not have been able to accomplish the first step. Now it is time to install the other operating system.

Insert the install disk and restart. The disk will prompt you to install a new system. Follow its instructions, and be sure to install your new operating system on the empty partition, not the one holding your current operating  system.

Step 3 - Switching

You now have two operating systems installed on your computer. But how do you switch between them?

When going from Mac to Windows, restart your computer while holding down the Option (Alt) key. Your computer will restart and give you a choice of which OS to use.

When going from Windows to Mac, you will need to use a third party boot manager. Do an Internet search for one and research your choice.