Updated on April 22, 2024

When functioning as the system drive in Windows, the C drive houses all the critical operating system files that affect performance and stability. However, upon getting a new computer, the C drive often occupies nearly the entire hard disk space, resulting in disordered storage and reduced efficiency. Consequently, it's essential to optimize the system and enhance disk usage by partitioning the C drive.

split c drive

This article from tools presents 2 simple methods to partition the C drive on Windows 11/10/8/7, enabling you to store various types of data on separate partitions.

  1. 1. Split C Drive with Partition Software
  2. 2. Split C Drive using Disk Management

Split C Drive with Partition Software

You might already be aware that Windows operating systems come with a built-in Disk Management tool. However, it can be somewhat complicated for novices and might lead to data loss. To make the process easier, you would require third-party partition software.

With the assistance of Partition Master tools, you can effortlessly divide the C drive. It can automatically split the unused free space of the C drive into two partitions. There's no need to format the disk, thus avoiding data loss or the need to re-install the system and reallocate disk space. You have the flexibility to manually adjust the partition capacity and utilize other features such as changing the drive letter, modifying partition types, setting cluster size, partitioning the C drive in Windows 7 without formatting, and more.

Upon downloading the software, proceed with the detailed instructions to address your issue.

Step 1. Select your targeted partition and click "Split Partition" from the Feature List.

Step 2. Resize the two split partitions and click "OK".

Step 3. All the changes made to the disk layout will be pending until you apply them in Execute Task.

Step 4. After making the changes, you will have successfully split the partition into two partitions.

Notes:

    • Partition Master only supports splitting partitions on basic disks. It cannot split dynamic volumes.
    • Only non-hidden partitions can be split.
    • The unused space on the operating partition should be more than 5% of the total partition space.

In addition to splitting partitions, there are several other features of Partition Master that can help you modify and optimize your disk space:

  • Create/Delete Partition: Creating new partitions for storing various types of data and files. Deleting unneeded partitions to free up space for other partitions.
  • Merge Partitions: Combining two partitions to merge their storage capacities into a single, larger partition.
  • Format/Wipe Partition: Formatting or wiping a partition ensures privacy by erasing all data contained within it.
  • Convert MBR to GPT: Converting the partition style from MBR to GPT allows utilization of partition capacities greater than 2TB.
  • Resize/Move Partition: Adjusting or relocating a partition modifies its storage size or position without losing its data.

Now that you've learned how to separate a drive, let's explore how to create new partitions from unallocated space. Here's an informative article for you to read.

当然,我很乐意帮助你。请提供你要我翻译的语言内容。

how to create partition from unallocated space

How to Create a Partition from Unallocated Space

This article will guide you on how to create a partition from unallocated space in Windows 10. You will find three methods, and you can select the one that suits your requirements. Read more >>

Split C Drive using Disk Management

Windows OS comes with a built-in utility called Disk Management that can assist you in dividing the C drive into multiple partitions. This tool enables you to manage your disk in various ways. However, to separate the local disk using Disk Management, you must first shrink the C drive. After that, you can create a new partition from the unallocated space to obtain additional partitions on your hard drive.

Follow the steps outlined in the guide below:

Step 1. Open Disk Management by right-clicking the Start icon and selecting Disk Management.

Step 2. Right-click on the C drive and choose Shrink Volume.

shrink volume

Step 3. Enter the amount of space you want to shrink from the C drive and then click Shrink to create unallocated space.

shrink

Step 4. Right-click the unallocated space and select New Simple Volume.

new simple volume

Step 5. Enter the amount of space you want to allocate to this new volume, and then format it to create a new partition.

If you find this post useful, share it with your friends.

I apologize, but you haven't provided any text to be translated. Please provide the Chinese text you want me to translate into English.

Why Do You Need to Partition C Drive

For some beginners, it might be a bit confusing when it comes to splitting the C drive and the reasons behind it. Splitting a partition means dividing a single large partition into several smaller ones on a hard disk or SSD. This involves resizing the large partition into smaller desired sizes by resizing the partition.

The remaining space becomes unallocated, which can then be used to create new partitions. Some users might think that having only one partition, such as C drive, would save them from partition-related issues. However, that's not necessarily the case.

If you're wondering why you should partition the C drive first when buying a new PC, check out the reasons below.

  • Safeguard the operating system separately from personal data to reduce risks and ensure stability.
  • Maximize disk space utilization and make partition numbers and sizes more rational.
  • Install two distinct Windows operating systems on a single device, each in a separate partition (instructions here).
  • Enhance computer loading speed and performance.
  • Organize data for improved management and simpler backup processes.
  • Work with multiple file systems, including NTFS, FAT32, and exFAT.

Conclusion

It's crucial to partition the C drive when you get a new computer. With the understanding of basic partitioning concepts and the numerous advantages of dividing the C drive into multiple partitions, we appreciate its significance. Failing to do so may lead to data chaos and severe harm to the operating system.

By partitioning the C drive with Partition Master, you can maximize your computer's potential without data loss. Download the partition software now to avoid hassle.

Frequently Asked Questions About Splitting C Drive

1. How much GB should I leave on the C drive?

Your C drive should have at least 20 GB of free space. This ensures that there is ample room for the operating system, crucial data, and any other programs you might have installed.

2. How do I partition the C drive into D and E drives in Windows 11?

Check out the guide here: (Translation: Please refer to the guide here:)

    Translate the following text into English: - Open Disk Management. - Right-click on the C drive, then choose "Shrink Volume." - Enter the amount of space you want to shrink and click "Next." - Right-click on the Unallocated space and select "New Simple Volume." - Set the partition size and assign the drive letter as D. - Ensure there's enough unallocated space, then repeat the previous steps to create drive E.

3. Can I split my C drive?

You cannot repartition the C drive without first formatting it. However, the Windows operating system has a protective mechanism that prevents you from formatting or deleting the C drive using standard disk partitioning tools. You can only resize the C drive, either to expand or shrink the partition, on Windows systems.

4. How do I partition my SSD C drive?

    1. Open Disk Management.
    2. Right-click on the C drive, then choose "Shrink Volume."
    3. Enter the amount of space you want to shrink and click "Next" to reduce the C drive.
    4. Right-click on the unallocated space and select "New Simple Volume" on the target hard drive.
    5. In Advanced Settings, adjust the partition size, partition drive letter, file system, and any other preferences.
    6. Click "OK."