Dual-boot on recent "windows computers"

pixellany · 05-19-2012, 06:14 AM

I have a vague memory of reading about a new Microsoft "feature" that would make it more difficult to set up dual-boot. "trusted---something", maybe?

The real question: When buying a computer which will be set up for dual-boot, are there any to avoid?

pixellany · 05-19-2012, 06:24 AM

I found this:
http://www.dailytech.com/Microsoft+B...ticle23785.htm

The inference is that it will be a Windows 8 "feature"

Roken · 05-19-2012, 06:40 AM

It's not a Windows feature - it's a replacement for the traditional BIOS. Whilst the specs are still under discussion, MS are trying to leverage a way to have secure boot enforced on some motherboards, which could prevent dual booting. The way to avoid the problem would be to refuse to purchase a MB where the feature is locked. (The specification says that it should be user configurable).

Google UEFI for a lot more detailed information.

TobiSGD · 05-19-2012, 06:40 AM

Nope, it will not be a Windows 8 feature. It is (an useful) feature of UEFI, abused by Microsoft to make it more difficult to install other OSes, or in case of Windows 8 for ARM, impossible to install a different OS. I don't know for the new boards with Intel 7-series chipset, but other than that I have not seen one board implementing Secure Boot.

onebuck · 05-19-2012, 07:05 AM

Moved: This thread is more suitable in <General> and has been moved accordingly to help your thread/question get the exposure it deserves.