[SOLVED] Linux+ Windows 7 OS

[sheprd]

I downloaded Fedora 12 and haven't tried to install it. Can I install it while I have the Windows 7 OS? Also the info said dpwnload Linux 12 desktop and try it before installing it. How do I do this? You may not guess it but I'm a total novice concerning Linux. Don't know jack about it but would like to learn and try it. Thanks for any info of any kind.

[reed9]

You have a couple of options. You can dual-boot Windows 7 and Linux or you can run Linux in a virtual machine.

You may be able to find guides specifically for Fedora, but the principles are the same regardless.
How to Dual Boot Linux and Windows 7 - Install Windows 7 and Fix GRUB
How to Dual Boot Windows 7

To try a linux distribution (or distro as we like to say) before installing, make sure you download a Live CD. Most major distros default to an installable live CD these days. When you boot up, there will be an option to try without installing. You can see in this screenshot where it says "Installable Live CD".

I'm not sure what the Fedora equivalent is, but in ubuntu, for example, there is also an alternate install CD, which is only able to install.

[sheprd]

Thanks reed9 for your response. You have provided me with enough info to enable me to proceed. Thanks again