using the install data in the hidden partition to create a virtual machine

[Ioannis Vranos]

On Sat, May 28, 2011 at 7:27 PM, Bill Stanley <bstanle at wowway.com> wrote:
> I dual boot on a Dell machine which originally had Windows installed.  I now
> am running Unbuntu but still have the original Win XP partition.  The
> machine I have is rather old but with upgrades is still running well.  This
> gets to my question.
>
> I want to run a VBox machine with the original Win-XP OS.  I never received
> any Win-XP installation disks but I know that Dell puts OS install data in a
> small hidden partition.  I can see that partition with Unbuntu Linux so I
> know it is there.  Also, Windows activation is not going to be a problem
> because this was a Win-XP version before M$ had their crazy activation
> scheme.  The fact that this will be a rather old OS is not an issue because
> I am going to use it for legacy stuff.  Is there any way to use this for
> making a virtual machine?  If it can be used, how do I do it?


Supposing you mean you want to run Windows XP in VirtualBox:

The best way is to find some Windows XP installation CD, and use it
with your serial number.

Alternatively, check whether your computer's manual says how to create
installation media (CDs/DVDs). Some laptops have an option to create
installation media.



-- 
Ioannis Vranos

http://www.cpp-software.net