git ssb

title: "Mandrakelinux" date: 2004-04-18 18:15 status: published tags: Linux, Mandrakelinux, Windows, Knoppix, dataloss

<p>
A couple of weeks ago, I decided to take the plunge and install Mandrakelinux (10.0 “Community”) on my Windows XP box, for some dual-booting fun. Mandrake installed remarkably easily, and I found I could easily access my Windows documents from Linux. </p>
<p>
And then I rebooted into Windows... oh, no, wait - I couldn't. Neither of the bootloaders that came with Mandrake could run Windows. I figured the only option was to reinstall Windows... which, of course, requires formatting the partition onto which one installs (I remembered this only after trying)... which entails losing everything. </p>
<p>
Windows refused to install. I don't relish the idea of seeing <samp>Error loading operating system.</samp> ever again. </p>
<p>
The eventual resolution was to remove all the partitions on the hard drive (none of which now contained anything useful) and reinstall Windows. I had my documents backed up, but my music and settings are all gone - for ever and ever and ever amen. </p>
<p>
So if you fancy trying Linux, but are still rather fond of Windows, either stick to Knoppix, or buy yourself a cheap second box. You have been warned. </p>