Better ways to multi-boot? (isolate OS's)

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venm11

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Hi... I've been looking for a better way to multiboot, but to keep the partitions and OS's completely isolated from one another. Some stuff I've tried but am not satesfied with:
  • regular multiboot - no isolation at all
  • hotswap trays - that will isolate OS's 100%, but they have their problems
  • boot/partition managers - can hide partitions, but that doesn't always work.

So, what else is there? Here's some ideas, but I don't know what's available out there:
  • encrypted disks/partitions? (via password or booting from usb stick?)
  • network boot from server
  • restore from backup image on boot (perhaps via ghost/gigabit/raid<>raid)
  • vmware (not good for hardware support, gaming, etc)
  • storage virtualization (had high hopes for this, but have only seen proprietary implementations for specific purposes)

Ideas?? help!
 
Why do you want complete isolation? Would separate machines serve your purpose?

I've seen hardware switches that allow multiple IDE disks to be plugged into a single port, and then you can switch between them. I don't know if sata is available, but I'd guess so.
 
Setup HDD autodetection in your bios, and enable "boot other devices/drives".

Rig something up with a multiple throw switch inline with the power to the drives. Then you basically switch OS's with a physical switch.

On the software side of things, I always liked Partition Commander. Grub does a fine job as well.
 
unhappy_mage said:
Why do you want complete isolation? Would separate machines serve your purpose?

I've seen hardware switches that allow multiple IDE disks to be plugged into a single port, and then you can switch between them. I don't know if sata is available, but I'd guess so.
Click to expand...

Mage, I have multiple machines now, and am trying to consolidate to fewer - or one. The thing is, all these old computers are starting to max out and I have 1 good gaming machine which I'm only using for games. Given that I don't work and play games at the same time (etc, etc), it makes sense to get more use out of the bigger investment.

BUT isolation is critical to make sure that no goofy crap I'm doing on my personal machine finds its way through the vpn to company boxes. Or vice versa... I don't want want the admins chatting about how much i like oneLeggedMidgetMilfs.com, you know??

I've seen those drive switchers you mentioend. I don't think they power down the drives when they're not in use, and if they did, i'm worried about what a relay might be doing to the current going into the drives. Plus.... some drive controllers seem to get easily confused if a drive is connected but not powered, or slave/master IDE crap, etc etc.
 
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