If running Multiple OS's, can programs be installed once and run on both?

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nobills

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Nov 17, 2014
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I'm trying to organize my Hard Drives and I'm wondering if I have, say, two OS (XP and Windows 7 as an example), can I install the operating systems on one HD, and any other programs on another HD so that I can access the same program from either OS?

One of the main reasons for this is because I would like to reinstall one of my OS's and not have to reinstall all my programs. I've had to do this before, and I wasn't happy with the amount of time it took to do this. I also don't like wasting HD space for redundant programs.

Any information, help or guidance to further sources of information will be appreciated.
 
Solution
USAFRet
Not the way you're thinking, no.
They will have to be installed for each OS. When you install an application, it creates a whole bunch of other entries. Registry, AppData, etc. If you are in XP and install something, the Windows 7 Registry knows nothing about it. Some few applications may work, but it would be trial and error to see which ones.

However, you can install them to the same place to preclude 'wasted space'. But only if you install them outside the Program Files folder of whichever OS.
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KNARF XD

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Nov 28, 2013
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it is possible, if they are written the same, so windows xp and 7 is possible, but windows 7 and linux not, because they are not written in the same "language" , but i wouldnt do it anyways, it is not worth the hassle, just stick with one operating system, or multiple but reinstall everything, maybe you can use separate hard disks for the OSes.
 
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USAFRet

USAFRet

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Mar 16, 2013
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Not the way you're thinking, no.
They will have to be installed for each OS. When you install an application, it creates a whole bunch of other entries. Registry, AppData, etc. If you are in XP and install something, the Windows 7 Registry knows nothing about it. Some few applications may work, but it would be trial and error to see which ones.

However, you can install them to the same place to preclude 'wasted space'. But only if you install them outside the Program Files folder of whichever OS.
 
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