Partition Local Disk C Without Losing Data

Partitioning your Local Disk C can help organise your files, improve system performance, and allow for better data management. If your computer has only one drive (C:), creating additional partitions can separate the operating system from personal files. This guide will walk you through the steps to partition your C drive safely without losing data.

Why Should You Partition Local Disk C?

• Better File Organisation: Keep personal files separate from system files.
• Improved Performance: Helps optimise disk usage and speeds up access to frequently used files.
• Easier Backup & Recovery: If Windows crashes, your personal files remain safe in a separate partition.
• Dual Booting: Allows installing another OS alongside Windows

Take These Precautions Before Partitioning

✅ Backup Important Files: Use an external hard drive or cloud storage.
✅ Check Available Free Space: Ensure enough space is available to create a new partition.
✅ Disable Security Software: Some antivirus programs may interfere with disk management.
✅ Ensure Power Supply: If using a laptop, plug it into a power source to avoid interruptions.

Now, proceed with the three steps below to do the partition!

Step 1: Open Disk Management

1. Press Windows + R, type diskmgmt.msc, and press Enter. OR
2. Press Windows + X and select Disk Management from the menu

    4. The Disk Management window will open, showing all available disks and partitions.

Step 2: Shrink Local Disk C

    1. Locate Local Disk C (C:), right-click on it, and select Shrink Volume

    2. Windows will analyse the disk space and show the maximum available shrink size.

    

    3. Enter the amount of space (in MB) to shrink. For example:

• 14,000 MB (14GB) for a new partition

    4. Click Shrink and wait for the process to complete.

Step 3: Create a New Partition

    1. After shrinking, you will see Unallocated Space in Disk Management.

    2. Right-click on the unallocated space and choose New Simple Volume.

    3. Follow the New Simple Volume Wizard:

• Set the partition size (use the default for full allocation).
• Assign a drive letter (e.g., D: or E:).
• Choose NTFS as the file system and perform a Quick Format.

    4. Click Finish to create the new partition. 

5. Verify the entire process by typing: Windows + E and choose This PC from the left navigation pane.

You are all set, well done! Follow for more TechTips.