Install Windows 10 Alongside Windows 8.1 and Win 7

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Ngày cập nhật gần nhất: 1/5/2026

Windows 10 introduces the Technical Preview version. Since this is primarily a trial version, users rarely opt for direct installation. Most choose virtual drives or dual-boot setups with their existing Windows. In this guide, Mytour walks you through the process of installing Win 10 alongside Windows 8.1 or Win 7.

The latest version of Windows 10 is the Windows 10 Creators Update. Licensed Windows 10 users can now upgrade to experience the latest features from Microsoft. For users with older Windows versions, Mytour offers a simple and convenient guide to install Windows 10 Creators Update via USB, as demonstrated in previous tutorials.

Many questions arise about whether to install and use Windows 10 or stick to a virtual environment or dual-boot with the existing operating system. Currently, there are numerous ways to install Windows 10. However, choosing the most suitable installation method for users' needs is not a straightforward decision.

If users want a quick direct experience of Windows 10 beyond its default setup, they can also Ghost Windows 10. However, when ghosting Windows 10, users can't use previous operating systems like Windows 8/8.1 or Windows 7, which they might want to keep for concurrent use with Windows 10.

Mytour recommends users to install Windows 10 Technical Preview in a virtual environment or set up a dual-boot system. Since this is just a trial version from Microsoft, installing Windows 10 on a virtual machine is straightforward. You can refer to the guide on installing Win 10 on VMWare for assistance with the installation process.

Previously, we introduced an article on installing Win 8.1 alongside Win 7. In this guide, Mytour will walk you through the process of installing Windows 10 alongside Windows 8.1 on your computer using a USB device. Additionally, you can install directly using the ISO file if setting up alongside Windows 7, or use a CD/DVD for Windows XP, Vista, or Win 8 and above.

Create a Bootable Installation USB

Preparation:: Ensure your machine has Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0 or later.; You need a USB with a capacity of > 4GB, empty, and formatted.

Step 1:
* Download the setup file for Windows 10

Step 2:
Download and install the software for ISO file writing support, ISO to USB

Step 3:
Proceed to burn the *.iso file onto the USB
Insert the USB into your machine
In the ISO to USB software interface:
- Choose Browse to locate the folder containing the Windows 10 Technical Preview iso file
- Select the USB device
- Choose File System: FAT32
- Check Bootable option

Finally, select Burn to initiate the process of writing the iso file to the USB

Step 4:

Next, the program will display a notification. Choose Yes

Step 5:

The process of writing the iso file to USB is in progress

So, the iso file has been successfully burned to the USB drive

Additionally, you can also use the Windows 7 USB/DVD Download tool to write the iso file to USB (Refer to details: install Windows 7 via USB)

Guide to Installing Windows 10 Technical Preview alongside other Windows versions

Step 1.0:

Choose USB as the Priority in the BIOS.

To adjust, access BIOS during startup by pressing DEL, F8, F10,… depending on your machine model. It will be displayed during startup. Once in BIOS, locate the boot order selection, and set the operating system to load from USB.

After the Windows 10 startup interface appears, select the installation language. Choose Next.

Step 2.0:

Select Install now

Step 3.0:

Choose Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)

Step 4:

Select a different partition from the existing Windows installation. Then, choose Next

Step 5:

The installation process will automatically proceed within a specific timeframe

After a successful installation, disconnect the USB, and let Windows 10 Technical Preview perform automatic updates and upgrades

Important Note: It's advisable to disconnect from the internet during the installation of Windows 10 Technical Preview

Thus concludes the process of installing Windows 10 Technical Preview alongside the existing Windows on your computer.

As it is a dual-boot with Windows 8.1, during startup, you'll have two options: either enter Windows 8.1 or Windows 10.

* When installing alongside Windows XP or Vista, the computer will boot directly into Windows 10.

How to Dual Boot Between Windows 10 and Windows XP or Vista

Step 1.1:

On the Windows 10 interface, press the shortcut Ctrl + R: to open the Run window.

Enter SystemPropertiesAdvanced.exe and press Enter.

Step 2.1:

Go to the Advanced tab. Choose Settings under Startup and Recovery.

Step 3.1:

Under Default operating system, choose Earlier Version of Windows instead of Windows Technical Preview. Click OK to finish the setup process.

So, after booting up, you'll have the privilege to choose which Windows version you want to log into.

The interface of Windows 10 Technical Preview

Here, Mytour has guided you on how to install Windows 10 Technical Preview alongside other Windows on your computer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the recommended methods for installing Windows 10 alongside Windows 8.1 or Windows 7?

The recommended methods for installing Windows 10 alongside Windows 8.1 or Windows 7 include using a dual-boot setup or a virtual environment. This allows users to experience Windows 10 while retaining their existing operating systems. Mytour suggests creating a bootable USB drive and following specific installation steps to ensure a successful setup.

Is it possible to upgrade from older Windows versions to Windows 10 Creators Update easily?

Yes, upgrading from older Windows versions to Windows 10 Creators Update is straightforward. Licensed users can upgrade by following simple steps outlined in guides. Mytour provides detailed instructions for users to create a bootable USB or use ISO files, ensuring a smooth transition to the latest Windows features.

What precautions should I take before installing Windows 10 Technical Preview?

Before installing Windows 10 Technical Preview, it's advisable to disconnect from the internet to avoid interruptions. Additionally, ensure that your machine has the required .NET Framework version and that you use a USB drive with at least 4GB of space. This preparation helps streamline the installation process.

Can I keep my previous operating system when ghosting Windows 10?

No, you cannot keep your previous operating system when ghosting Windows 10. Ghosting replaces the existing system with Windows 10, meaning that versions like Windows 8/8.1 or Windows 7 will no longer be accessible. Users should consider dual-boot setups for concurrent usage of multiple operating systems.

What should I do if I encounter issues during the Windows 10 installation process?

If you encounter issues during the Windows 10 installation process, ensure that your USB is properly formatted and that the ISO file is correctly burned. Additionally, check your BIOS settings to confirm that the USB is set as the primary boot device. Following these steps can often resolve common installation problems.

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