Need alternative computer set-up at work

[coolecho]

Hello,

Not sure I'm posting in correct area!
I have a Dell latitude e5420 running Windows 7 64bit at work. I have the need for developing, editing, in XP, and or linux with favorite apps at work but can't install them on my work laptop. I use Visual C 6 alot, and need to have an ubuntu partition, as I need to learn linux as well. We use linux occationally at work on some systems.
I could perhaps buy a external usb and set it up at home as dual boot with my work laptop that I can bring home, And install whatever I Want. However with this method I would have to switch boot OS's all day. I thought about buying a small laptop to bring in instead. My current home laptop is a clunker and old/heavy. We have a private WiFi separate from the company network that I can use for internet.
Any help much appreciated!

[ElFenix]

vmware is probably a better solution

[dave_the_nerd]

Yeah, if you're learning Linux, use VirtualBox or VMWare to run it in a shell. Easier to fix if you foul it up.

If you don't foul it up, you're not learning enough!

[pauldun170]

Install VMware\Virtualbox if work policy allows.
Setup your VM's and keep backups\snapshots.

If work doesn't allow, ask to see if there are VM's currently available that you can remote into for dev use. If they don't, get the ball rolling and make sure you can justify it. Trying to circumvent policy usually is a bad idea. Try official channels first.

What apps (besides VS 6 ) are you looking to use at work that are forbidden? Why not ask for exceptions or just try and get them include them as allowable apps?

[coolecho]

OK Thanks. I need to investigate VMWare or Virtualbox. I know nothing about this.
It appears that this needs to be installed on my work laptop which is setup by IT, and there would have to be a partition for the Ubuntu?? If so, no can do.
The VC6 won't install on Win 7 64bit. The other software is not a big deal.

[dave_the_nerd]

Originally Posted by coolecho

OK Thanks. I need to investigate VMWare or Virtualbox. I know nothing about this.
It appears that this needs to be installed on my work laptop which is setup by IT, and there would have to be a partition for the Ubuntu?? If so, no can do.
The VC6 won't install on Win 7 64bit. The other software is not a big deal.

You would not need a separate partition. But you would need admin rights on the laptop to do the VBox install.

[coolecho]

I do have admin rights. What's better VMWare or Virtualbox? Does it cost anything? Is there a instructional forum? Thank You.

[dave_the_nerd]

Originally Posted by coolecho

I do have admin rights. What's better VMWare or Virtualbox? Does it cost anything? Is there a instructional forum? Thank You.

VirtualBox is free. VMWare costs money, but IIRC it is a bit better (faster, etc.) There's a free trial.

I use virtualbox, and am happy with it. But I'm not a heavy virtualization user.

[mfenn]

Originally Posted by coolecho

OK Thanks. I need to investigate VMWare or Virtualbox. I know nothing about this.
It appears that this needs to be installed on my work laptop which is setup by IT, and there would have to be a partition for the Ubuntu?? If so, no can do.
The VC6 won't install on Win 7 64bit. The other software is not a big deal.

Waitaminute. From this statement, "We use linux occationally at work on some systems," it sounds like there is a legitimate business need to have access to a Linux machine. If IT isn't willing to facilitate that, you have a policy/process problem, not a technology one.

[coolecho]

You are right I can look into getting a Linux box. However I'm doing most of my Linux practice at home as I get time. I got a USB3 1T external mini size Toshiba and will setup a dual boot on it - XP and Ubuntu. It'll be a learning experience.
Thanks for your suggestions, especially the VM's.