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== Purpose of Dual / Multiple Boot ==
Most of the time, when you purchase a computer system, it only comes with one operating system. For example, it is very common to purchase a computer that only comes with the MicroSoft operating system.
Dual Boot means that the user is provided two operating systems to choose from upon bootup. Multiple-boot means that the user is provided with more then two operating systems to choose from upon bootup.
== How it works ==
Generally when most Linux systems are installed, the Grub bootloader program is installed. After Linux installation and computer reboot, the Grub bootloader menu should appear offering the user with a selection of operating systems to boot. The concept is similar to the boot.ini file that NTLDR (the boot loader for Windows OS) uses to supply a menu selection for a multiple-boot system.
When the computer system starts, the computer's BIOS locates and runs the bootstrap program on the MBR (Master Boot Record). A series of programs (of Grub) are run provide the user with a selection of operating system to boot. For example, the user can select a version of Linux to load the Linux Kernel, or the user can select another operating system (like Windows) to load in the boot-loader (eg. NTLDR). This process of loading boot loaders for other non-Linux operating systems is referred to as chainloading.
== Advantages of Dual / Multiple Boot ==
Here are some advantages of having a Dual boot or Multiple boot computer system:
* Ability to work in different Operating System Environnments
* Develop programs quickly in Linux platform
* Flexibility of running best application in best OS environment
* Ability to boot up into at least one OS in case other OS is damaged or failes to boot up
