I want to install Linux alongside Windows but I have a full partition. How do I do this without losing data?

I have a full windows partition that has all of my important files. Is it possible to install Linux on this hard drive without reformatting my data?





I tried using KNOPPIX, but I was unable to open any data from my C drive with it. I couldn't delete files either. I have reason to believe that Linux could come in handy in the event of a trojan attack. The way I see it is I could boot to linux and delete the infected files but with KNOPPIX that doesn't seem possible.





So a CD distro is probably out of the question. Is there any other way to use linux on a computer w/ a full NTFS partition?

I want to install Linux alongside Windows but I have a full partition. How do I do this without losing data?
norton (formerly powerquest) partition magic should work fine in partitioning your hard disk without losing stored data. i suggest that after you partition your HDD, reboot and move all your files to the partition which contains your Windows OS.. after which you reformat the partition which you wish to install the linux OS..





also remember that linux operating systems usually work properly on a LinuxExt formatted partition.even though, the linux OS can still read FAT32 format.. im not really sure about NTFS format..





but if you have money to spare, buying an extra HDD would have to be the choice.. it saves you time and the hassle of partitioning and moving your files...
Reply:You could install Cygwin to have Linux functionality under Windows, though it won't help you with viruses.
Reply:If u do not want to partition the hard disk the best option for u is to download vmworkstation software %26amp; install the software in your pc.Then open the the vmworkstaion software i will guide u what as to be done.All u need to do start the vmworkstation %26amp; install the linux os required %26amp; use it.The software is free downloadable %26amp; cd-key also is downloadable.
Reply:partition magic will do it yes.
Reply:the easiest solution is to add another hard drive and set it up as your linux drive.