Need help installing ubuntu. (read post for issue)

[paskowitz]

In short I think I need help installing ubuntu to access my HDD because Vista got corrupted on my PC.

Long version:

Sit rep: (vista 32bit) Installing game, screen froze, turned off PC, gets to MS loading bar, blue screen flickers, startup repair does not work, does not recognize OS (even with disc), did HDD check, HDD is ok, Dell thinks the OS is corrupt . Now I know I can just wipe my computer and reinstall the OS but I really need all my data because a lot of it relates to school work and finals are coming up and my external HDD is also bust not to mention the 100gb of music.

Dell wants to charge me $120 to do a parallel installation of Vista and then back my data to an external HDD (I feel like just breaking my computer and sending it to Dell... ugh!). My dad's PC guy says this is stupid and wants to charge me "a couple hundred $'s" to get all my data off with a better method. My friend says they are both clowns and I should just do a dual boot with linux and, back up my files from linux and then wipe my PC. My dad's PC guy then says that this is not guaranteed and that his "special software" is garenteed to work. (I feel like he just wants my money... which he probably does.)

Who is right? I know there are a lot of undefined variables here that may affect my situation but I am no tech wiz but my friend sounds like he is making the most sense thus my being here.

My actual questions...

If I install linux will I be able to access my HDD? Is there a thread that details how to do a dual boot with linux (ubuntu)? More specifically how to do it from a CD/flash drive/ What are the risks involved?

Thanks for your support.

[yancek]

I would suggest you download 'SystemRescueCD. There are several programs on it designed specifically for situations like yours. I'd suggest you read some of the documentation before starting anything.

Main Page - SystemRescueCd