Run windows 7 on external hard drive?

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Run windows 7 on external hard drive?

I'm purchasing a MAC mini to replace my G4 and PC. I would like to have Windows available for several applications (mainly for the kids) and am wondering if I could install windows on an external hard drive and run it through the Mini. I really don't want to partition the Mini's HD for both OS as I prefer to stay as far away from windows as possible. Thanks.

Mini, Mac OS X (10.6.3)

Posted on Apr 21, 2010 5:30 AM

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Answer 1

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Fortuny

Level 7

21,455 points

Apr 21, 2010 6:28 AM in response to Edhilljr

Hi and welcome to Discussions,

Microsoft has done everything possible to make Windows not to be bootable from external harddisks.
And Apples BootCamp follows this intention.

There are instructions to be found on the internet for using USB-connected harddisks to boot WIndows from, but I never tried it.

Sorry

Stefan

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Answer 2

The hatter

Level 9

60,990 points

Apr 21, 2010 7:32 AM in response to Fortuny

It all depends on the PC motherboard and BIOS, I don't even think MS has done anything draconian or such, and it is possible and actually easy, with the right X58 say motherboards (most). My Intel DX58SO I used to install via built in eSATA.

There is nothing wrong with or reason to fear Windows, but if kids want to play games, a VM isn't going to cut it. Buy a cheap mini just for Windows, or a PC, or run OS X off external drive and use the internal for Windows only.

Windows 7 + MS Security Essentials is solid and best yet and as easy to use and not all that different than Mac OS (and maybe has had more testing even). Hopefully computers can be seen for what they are, used as tools, objectively.

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Answer 3

The hatter

Level 9

60,990 points

Apr 21, 2010 7:52 AM in response to The hatter

http://features.techworld.com/security/3221198/ultimate-guide-to-windows-7-secur ity/

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Answer 4

Edhilljr Author

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Apr 21, 2010 5:43 PM in response to Fortuny

Stefan,

Thank you. I have seen posted information but have not studied it as I did not see reference to using applications. I supposed speed would be an issue for many apps but not all.

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Answer 5

Edhilljr Author

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Apr 21, 2010 5:57 PM in response to The hatter

Hatter,

Thank you for the information. I am not an expert by any means and therefore, a little concerned about running windows on the mini (as well as OSX). I have a PC with XP Pro but wanted to 'tidy' up the office and have only the mini. I understand the 4GB limit with dual partitions so I have a concern about videos...that is why I inquired about using an external for non-primay stuff. I'm new to windows 7 on the office laptop so thank you for the link.

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