how can I boot linux or windows from an external USB hard drive?

Question

I wanted to do this with a real hard drive (external) that I have set up. I have a new computer that says it boots from USB, but when I take an old windows HD (that works if put in the IDE slot) it won't boot via USB. Thanks!

Answer 1

Shut your machine down then turn it back on. Almost immediately try pressing DELETE repeatedly and/or F12 (it's okay to alternate them). Those are the keys usually used to kick you in to BIOS setup. If one doesn't work, the other usually will. Occasionally F1 is the one you use, and sometimes it'll say on the screen in the corner.

When you get into BIOS setup, look for a section on boot devices and then boot sequences. If it supports USB boot devices, make that device first. What that means is it will check that device first and try to boot from it. If it's absent (unplugged) the machine will simply go to next in line, usually your CD or hard drive.

If it doesn't support it, there's not a lot you can do in that department, although you could consider swapping out your hard drive, if you're comfortable with a screwdriver and wires.

Answer 2

Not too sure about linux but with windows you need to boot from the cdrom and create a new partition on the USB drive. If your bios supports booting from USB the USB drive should appear in windows partitioning utility during setup.

Answer 3

You can't normally boot Windows off a USB device. You can if you use a program called windows PE. CHeck out the instructions on the following page:

http://www.tomshardware.com/2005/09/09/windows_in_your_pocket/

Answer 4

properly confident you could actual try this, yet indexed under are your 2 thoughts i'm going to provide you which of them are the two great. a million. Wubi, Wubi is an stunning little element from ubuntu. it enables you to place in Ubuntu interior of abode windows(like a application) on a LMVP or loop fastened digital partition. I even have achieved this particularly some circumstances and enjoyed it. 2. abode windows 7 has a geared up-in partition supervisor in case you prefer to do it the previous vogue way.(this manner you will get better area in linux (Wubi purely enables as much as 30gbs) and it will run quicker. To get right of entry to this, hit the commencing up button and merely type partition. from there opt for your majorchronic and shrink the partition. after that merely pop interior the disk and have it installation on the unallocated area. sturdy success to you and that i'm hoping you relish utilising linux as much as i do!!