Although Windows typically conceals system partitions, it's straightforward to accomplish this task using an inherent system utility or alternative software if you wish to hide regular partitions from being visible in Windows.
If you wish to display concealed partitions, there are various methods for conveniently revealing them. If you're unsure about the process, worry not and continue reading this article to the end for comprehensive guidance. In this post, we will illustrate how to show a hidden partition using the command prompt.
We are utilizing an excellent tool, namely the command prompt utility Diskpart, which provides a command-line interface for users. It is a robust tool capable of supporting a wide range of disk partition operations. For instance, you can use Diskpart to create a FAT32 partition or delete all partitions.
You can also utilize it to conceal or reveal partitions. Before we demonstrate how to display hidden partitions using the command prompt, let's first explore the fundamental Diskpart commands.
diskpart: This command is used for launching the Diskpart console.
assign letter #: This command assigns a drive letter to the chosen volume.
list Volume: This command shows all volumes present on the computer system.
select volume #number: This command selects the partition that you intend to assign a drive letter to.
Once you're fully informed about these commands, you can easily follow the detailed process below to display the hidden partition.
Step 1: Open the Run window by pressing the Windows key + R button simultaneously.
Step 2: Type the CMD command in the Run Prompt and press the Shift + Enter buttons to proceed with the process.
Step 3: After doing so, you'll receive a User Account Control (UAC) prompt on your device. Simply click on the "Yes" button in the pop-up window.
Step 4: Next, type the command "Diskpart" in the provided field and press the Enter key to initiate the Diskpart console on your device.
Step 5: Replace the path displayed in the Command Prompt with "Diskpart". Next, type the command "list volume" to view a list of all the partitions.
Step 6: Type "select volume 3" to choose the hidden partition, and hit Enter.
Step 7. Type "assign letter H" and press Enter.
Your partition has now been successfully unhidden. You can easily locate the previously hidden partition. However, when using this method, you must exercise caution to avoid entering incorrect commands, as it requires some level of technical expertise. Next, we will introduce an easier approach.
Locating hidden partitions is no longer a daunting task now. The tools Partition Master is an excellent tool that takes the lead in handling partition issues. Not only is the tool safe to use, but it is also highly convenient and user-friendly.
It is a powerful tool that provides users with professional-level access, enabling them to maximize its usage to the fullest.
Partition Master is well-suited to meet the needs of both beginners and professionals alike. The tool comes fully equipped with a wide array of features pertaining to disk partition, including:
Alright, guys! Hopefully, you've learned how to display hidden partitions using the command prompt. Making partitions invisible and then locating them as per your need is quite an effortless task. Simply utilize efficient tools like Diskpart or Partition Master to simplify the process.
tools Partition Master is one of the top-notch third-party tools that are not only user-friendly and straightforward but also cost-effective and practical. It is an all-encompassing partition manager providing free access to individual users. Be it copying the operating system and data to another SSD (Solid State Drive) or HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or converting MBR (Master Boot Record) to GPT (GUID Partition Table) for a Windows 11 upgrade, every task can be accomplished effortlessly without any hassle.
In this guide, we've endeavored to provide comprehensive information on revealing hidden partitions using the Command Prompt. If you still have any questions, here are some frequently asked questions related to today's topic.
1. How can I view all partitions in Command Prompt?
Follow the steps below to use Command Prompt (CMD) to view all partitions:
1. **Open Command Prompt**:
- Press the `Windows key + R` on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
- Type "cmd" in the dialog box and press `Enter`. This will launch the Command Prompt.
2. **Execute the DiskPart Command**:
- In the Command Prompt, type `diskpart` and press `Enter`.
- You'll see a new command prompt window within CMD, indicating that you're now in DiskPart mode.
3. **List Disks**:
- In the DiskPart prompt, type `list disk` and press `Enter`. This will show a list of all the disks connected to your system.
4. **Select the Disk with Partitions**:
- Identify the disk number that contains the partitions you want to view.
- Type `select disk
Step 1. Right-click the Windows button and select "Run."
Step 2. Type "diskpart.exe" and click "OK."
Step 3. Enter the following commands and press Enter:
List Volume
Select Volume 1
Assign Letter H
Exit
2. Why is my partition hidden? My partition is hidden possibly due to several reasons: 1. **File System Corruption**: If the file system of your partition becomes corrupted, it might be set as hidden or invisible. 2. **System Settings**: In some operating systems, partitions can be hidden by default for privacy or security purposes. 3. **Malware or Virus**: Malicious software can hide partitions to conceal its presence or protect its files. 4. **Partition Hiding Software**: You or someone with access to your computer might have used a tool to intentionally hide the partition. 5. **Accidental Modification**:误操作可能导致分区设置为隐藏。 6. **Hidden Partition**: Some computers, especially those with pre-installed software, may have a hidden recovery partition. To uncover the hidden partition, you can try the following steps: - **Disk Management**: Access the Disk Management utility in your OS (Windows: right-click on "My Computer" > Manage > Disk Management; macOS: Launch Terminal and type "diskutil list" to view disks and partitions). - **Command Prompt or Terminal**: Use commands like `chkdsk` (Windows) or `fsck` (macOS/Linux) to check and repair file system issues. - **Antivirus Scan**: Run a full system scan to detect and remove any malware. - **Third-party Tools**: Utilize partition management software to show hidden partitions. Always exercise caution when dealing with disk partitions, as incorrect manipulation could lead to data loss. If you're unsure, seek professional assistance.
Computer manufacturers often conceal hard drive partitions to protect them from unauthorized third-party access. These partitions contain files that allow the system to revert to its original factory state. However, these hidden areas often serve as a primary storage location for evidentiary files.
3. How do I view hidden partitions?
You can attempt using a third-party utility, such as Partition Master, to assist you in effortlessly accomplishing this task, or you can utilize the built-in Windows tools. To display it using File Explorer, follow these steps: 1. Open File Explorer: Click on the File Explorer icon typically located on your Taskbar or press the 'Windows key + E' on your keyboard. 2. Navigate to the desired location: In the left pane of File Explorer, browse to the folder or drive where the hidden file or folder is located. 3. Show hidden files and folders: Click on the "View" tab in the top ribbon. In the "Show/hide" section, check the box next to "Hidden items." This will enable the display of hidden files and folders. 4. If the file or folder is still not visible, click on the "Options" button in the ribbon, then select "Change folder and search options." 5. In the "Folder Options" dialog box, click on the "View" tab. Under "Advanced settings," ensure that "Show hidden files, folders, and drives" is selected. Also, uncheck "Hide protected operating system files (Recommended)" if needed. 6. Click "Apply" and then "OK" to save the changes. Now, the hidden files and folders should be visible in File Explorer. Locate the one you need and proceed with your task. Remember to reverse these settings when you're done to maintain your system's default behavior.
Step 1. Open File Explorer and click on "Hide drives."
Step 2. Choose the "do not restrict drives" option.