How to partition a hard drive in Windows step by step

In this guide I will tell you all about partitions in Windows. I’ll show you what types exist and how to create one to better manage your data.

In this guide I will explain how Create hard drive partitions in Windows 11. This is a method you should know if your computer has a single partition and you are interested in separating your personal data from system files and applications. In addition to explaining the step-by-step procedure, I will also explain to you what kind of partitions there are. I’ll also explain some basic concepts to you, such as drive letter or file system.

Whatever it is, whether you want to learn how to create partitions or whether you want to learn more about it, you should stay until the end. Either way, what I analyze here is of great interest to you. Let’s Begin!

What is a hard drive partition in Windows?

When you get a new hard drive, you can divide it into separate sections called partitions. Every section Operates as an independent unit With its own storage space and file system. This section allows you to organize your data more efficiently and separate different file types, such as your operating system, programs, and documents.

To keep it simple, imagine you have a cake. With a knife, you can divide it into totals Eight parts, then you distribute them to several people. Although all slices are part of the same pie, each one is dedicated to a specific person. Well, in the same way the same storage unit can be partitioned whether SSD or HDD, making it possible to allocate a specific space for each purpose.

Having multiple departments is a technology with benefits associated with it. Without going any further, it helps you protect your data and Isolate them from potential problems that arise on other partitions. Of course, having several of these compartments is also great for organizing the information you store on your hard drive. Of course, you should keep in mind that if the drive is damaged, it will not be possible to access all partitions. Therefore, in addition to creating partitions, many users use a second hard drive.

You will be able to Create from Windows or any other desktop system. As for mobile devices, their storage also has partitions, although they are hidden from the user, who can only access the partition in which the data is stored. For example, in Android we find /data, /recovery, /system and more sections.

Types of hard disk partitions

Out Three types of sections. Next, I will explain to you what the peculiarities of each one are:

• Primary section. In this partition, the Windows operating system is installed. This is because it is the type of partition that your computer will detect when it starts up. Each disk can have up to four primary partitions, and one of these partitions is usually designated as the system’s primary drive.
• Extended partition. An extended partition acts as a container to open additional new logical partitions. This approach allows you to overcome the limitation of having only four primary partitions on the disk. The operating system will never install under this type of partition.
• Logical partitioning. Logical partitions are located within the extended partition and are used to organize and store data. You can create multiple logical partitions within a single extended partition, providing flexibility in managing files and programs.

In addition to this classification, another classification can be applied depending on the type of data contained in each section. For example, some manufacturers include A Recovery partition, allowing equipment to be reset more easily. There is, too Swap partitionsknown in English as SwitchThe system saves some files in random access memory (RAM) to relieve pressure on them.

How to create a partition in Windows 11 step by step

Now you know more about hard disk partitions and their purpose. In the past, they played an important role in maintaining the integrity of user profiles. By having two sections, one of which is dedicated to storing information, If it becomes necessary to reinstall the operating systemThe data remained intact. This approach has changed, mainly because most users now backup to one of the best cloud storage services.

However, you may still want to maintain a local space that is safer from possible virus infections or system damage. How do I do it? In case it is Your hard drive contains only the system partition (and some hidden stuff), go to the split tool. Just search for the word to divide In Windows search. Determine what the first result will be Create and format hard disk partitions.

Finding the split tool is very simple.

Locate the system partition. Right click on it and choose Lower the volume. Keep in mind that you must have enough free space to be able to perform this operation.

Windows 11’s legacy partition utility is more than enough to manage your disks

In the pop-up window, choose the amount of space to remove from the original partition. Windows will set a maximum limit that you cannot exceed, taking into account the distribution of files on the drive. You must write it in megabytes. To make it easier for you, look at this equivalence: 100,000 = 100 GB.

Reduce the size of the existing partition.

Once the shrinking process is finished, you will see that the original partition is now smaller in size. Moreover, there will be the appearance of A Unallocated spaces, black. Click on it and press New simple size.

The unallocated space is about to be converted to a new partition

Click on the nextin the new Simple Folder Wizard.

I give you the wizard to create partitions

Select the Size of the new partition. You can use the same equivalence mentioned above to make the choice easier for you. The maximum partition size will be the same as the unallocated space.

If you want to create more than one new partition, do not use all the remaining unallocated space

Now you should Assign the drive letter. This is the most recommended option, although you can also mount the partition within an empty folder. I don’t advise you to do it this way because it will be difficult for you to organize your files. It’s best if the new partition has a letter and appears as a different drive in File Explorer.

Choose the letter you prefer for the new volume

In the next step, choose formatting options. In fact, you can have a partition formatted, although that will prevent you from using it. Therefore, it is better to choose the second option, which says Format this volume with the following settings. The recommended file system is NTFS. You should not touch the second parameter and Volume label, you can give the new unit a name. Finally, keep the quick format and press the next.

Some finishing touches and…

To finish, press He finishes. The action will be launched according to the specified parameters.

…You are now ready to complete the process

When you’re done, go to File Explorer. Enter the section This team Notice that you now have two different units. You have managed to separate part of the main partition to separate your personal data from system data.

Same hard drive, two different partitions

From now on, you’ll be able to better organize the information you save on your computer and not worry if you have to reset Windows at some point.

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