Linux

Okay, so I use windows, but since my line of work uses linux, I am thinking of partitioning my computer, so I can run both linux, and windows on the same machine. How would I go about doing this?

For partitioning:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/313348

For Dual Booting:
http://geekpolice.net/Dual-boot-XP-and-Linux-XP-installed-first-h2.htm

Okay, so it says to right click on unallocated space, I right click and nothing happens. Well, a pop up comes up and gives me a list of things to do, like mark partition as active, but it doesn't give me the option to create a new partition. How do I create a new partition? And, how would I back up my files? I need a disk, I know that. But just like back up windows, and all that stuff?

You can mark the partition as active. Just backup all the data that you require, you are not required to backup windows and system files.

Why dont you try a Linux distro using a 'Live CD' before you decide anything.

This will allow you to try out a few different versions of Linux to see which one best suits your needs, without even having to install it on your hard drive!

Here's a list of some of the more popular one's:

* Basilisk (based on Fedora)
* BeatrIX (based on Debian/Knoppix/Ubuntu)
* Berry Linux (based on Fedora)
* Damn Small Linux (based on Debian)
* FreeSBIE (based on Free BSD)
* Gnoppix (Knoppix/Debian plus Gnome, now merged with Ubuntu)
* Kanotix (modified Knoppix/Debian)
* Knoppix (the first big live CD, based on Debian)
* Luit (Debian/Xfce, rox filing system)
* Mandrake Move (based on Mandrake)
* Mepis (Debian)
* Morphix (modular Debian)
* PCLinuxOS Preview (a Mandrake fork)
* Sabayon
* Sam (Mandrake/Xfce)
* SLAX (Slackware)
* Suse 9.1 and 9.2 (rpm-based)
* Ubuntu Live (Debian)
* Xfld (Debian/Damn Small Linux and Xfce)

For Ubuntu 7.10: http://releases.ubuntu.com/7.10/ubuntu-7.10-desktop-i386.iso

For Sabayon/ Gentoo: http://linux.softpedia.com/get/System/Operating-Systems/Linux-Distributions/SabayonLinux-5256.shtml

For Knoppix 5.3.1: http://linux.softpedia.com/get/System/Operating-Systems/Linux-Distributions/KNOPPIX-Live-DVD-2621.shtml

Where would one find this "live cd" you speak of?

Try https://shipit.ubuntu.com/ they will send you a cd completely free as in beer