but first do i have to install xp first then vista if i want to duel boot ?
would have thought it to be the best course of action.
since the newer boot loader will be in vista.
Yes with xp installed vista set the dual boot up for me.
With vista installed first the dual boot was a mess.
vista will know about xp. XP wont know what vista is.
So yes, put XP on first and let Vista sort out the older system it fully understands.