Windows 7: Dual Instances of OS ..Interaction problems?

I am running Win 7_7600 RTM x64.

I was thinking of installing an identical copy on another partition on the same drive. I intend using the 2nd install as a testbed to try different SW before installing it in my main partition.



Is there likely to be any problem if I create such an install?

I am assuming the system will recognize each as a separate install even though the same OS and will keep them distinctly apart.

Your best option is to use a program like Acronis Disk Director/OS Selector and setup your partitions with the option of "hiding" the other OS from the one you are booting. This eliminates the chance of there being any conflicts because it is a possibility when two OS's see each other, especially similar OS's that there can be problems.

To illustrate my point you have:

OS 'A'
OS 'B'

and each is setup so that when you boot the one, the other will automatically be hidden, so:

From OS Selector screen, you select to boot OS 'A', the program will automatically hide OS 'B' and it's partition as if it didn't exist and then boot into OS 'A'. And of course vice versa.

I have this setup for my Win 7, XP, and Leopard.

Um, this is the PERFECT case for using a virtual machine. Yes it might be a bit slower performance-wise than a second native install, but you will have that "sandbox" protecting your real installation.

Thank you both for the responses. I am going to try the Acrnois solution first and see how I fare.

Regards!