How can i load linux on my xp?

i currently have windows xp pro, and i want ubuntu or kubuntu. i know i need to partition my hard drive and i have about 70 free gb of space so i plan to make a 40gb partition. how can i partition for free, and is there a way in which the partition can not affect or damage my hard drive. next is all i have to do load linux on my computer and if not how do i make it so at startup i can choose...linux or xp

How can i load linux on my xp?microsoft excel

Actually you do not need to partition your drive. you can install a software called vmware server http://www.vmware.com/download/server/ It is free

Once you install that you can run any version of linux you want from inside of windows. It does nothing you your hard drive at all. it runs linux in a virtual environment. Hope this helps. It is a really easy to use application. I use it and all i use now is linux in a virtual environment.

How can i load linux on my xp?microsoft updates internet explorer

i wouldn't load linux on windows XP. you have to tell in BIOS if you want to make dual boot. advance options
search google for pc linux os. burn the live cd and put it in. restart ur computer and on the desktop theres a intall linux icon (u may want too read there tut on the homepage) tada! u now can dual boot linux and xp.