Malware and Multiple Installations on one PC

[allanc]

Can malware that infects one installation on a PC infect another
installation on the same PC?
For example, two installations of XP PRO or one of XP PRO and another
of VISTA?
TIA.

 

[Larry(LJL269)]

CAssoc says infection effecting hidden partition is as probable as sun
not rising manana. All my XPs r hidden but 1 that is active.

HTH-Larry

Can malware that infects one installation on a PC infect another
installation on the same PC?
For example, two installations of XP PRO or one of XP PRO and another
of VISTA?
TIA.

Any advice is my attempt to contribute more than I have received but I can only assure you that it works on my PC. GOOD LUCK.

 

[allanc]

The reason that I am asking is that I was thinking of having a
partition for backing up *other* computers on my network. This
partition would be hidden.
I wanted a warm feeling that if the active partition was infected - my
backups would be safe.
So, this seems like a reasonable assumption?

 

[NotMe]

Unless you had a HDD failure... I wouldn't worry about an malware or virus
infection harming hidden partitions.

 

[allanc]

Then I can start implementing my plan.
Thank you both!

 

[Larry(LJL269)]

I wanted a warm feeling that if the active partition was infected - my
backups would be safe.
So, this seems like a reasonable assumption?

Yes it does. IMHO HDD in $20 USB2 enclosure is optimal- fast,
secure(power off when not in use) & removeable. I use 80GB HDD.

Just my 2¢ worth. Larry
Any advice is my attempt to contribute more than I have received but I can only assure you that it works on my PC. GOOD LUCK.