Replacing Windows XP with Linux Mint in a Multiboot system

bonjourbob

Reputable
Apr 9, 2014
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My current configuration is a multiboot system with three partitions on my system drive (disk 0). Partition D/Windows XP, Partition E/Data Set Partition, and Partition C/Windows 7. My secondary drive, which is not really relative to this dialog has 4 partitions for system backups, system and application paging areas, and a frees space area. This system works flawlessly, with Windows 7 managing the initial boot process.

My primary goal, and the basis for this posting is to find the best way to replace my Windows XP partition with Linux Mint. Which of the following makes the most sense, or is there yet another less hazardous path?

1. Install Linux over XP?
Should I just clean format the current XP partition and install Linux Mint over it, leaving the windows 7 partition in tact? Will the Windows 7 boot menu still function even though it is actually thinks it is offering an XP boot option which in reality would be Linux.

2. Ground Zero approach?
Should I reformat the entire drive and set up the three blank partitions followed by a clean intall (yikes) of Windows 7, Followed by a clean install of Linux, and then, I am guessing installing Grub to manage the boot process.? I don't think I can use an image file backup of windows 7 (image for dos) since it will be expecting an XP boot option. Windows 7 will not allow me to backup/restore Win 7 without Win XP.

Help
 

StevenTheMathGuy

Reputable
Aug 11, 2014
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4,520
Install Linux over the Windows XP partition AND use GRUB to manage the bootloading process. While I've not used Mint, I've done exactly this with Ubuntu and there were no issues.
 
Solution

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