How to Dual-Boot Windows XP and Windows 7

One way to take the Windows 7 beta for a spin is by running it in a virtual-machine environment. Of course, that requires a bit of technical know-how. Another option is to create a new partition on your hard drive, install Windows 7 on it, and enjoy the benefits of a dual-boot setup.

Windows Vista users can accomplish this with ease thanks to a built-in partitioning tool, but what about folks still lingering in Windows XP? Thankfully, there's a freeware partition tool called Easeus Partition Manager 3.0.

As for the actual process of setting up Windows 7 in a dual-boot configuration with XP, Lifehacker has the details. (They also cover the procedure for Vista users.) But I highly recommend using Easeus in place of the tool they recommend, which requires a lot more effort.