dual boot

dual boot definition - computer

A computer with two operating systems. At startup, a boot manager program lets the user choose which one to load. "Multiboot" may refer to a dual boot system or to one that hosts more than two operating systems. For example, System Commander lets you install all the operating systems you wish on one PC and choose which one you want at startup.

Dual booting and multibooting are not the same as a "virtual machine," although sometimes the terms are used synonymously. Virtual machines host multiple operating systems, but can run them all at the same time. See virtual machine.


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All the Boots You'll Ever Need

System Commander lets you install all the operating systems on your PC that you are ever likely to need. On startup, the menu lets you choose your OS. (Screen shot courtesy of Avanquest Publishing USA, Inc., www.v-com.com)






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