Remster

My 2 year old laptop that is well spec'd (1gig, P4 etc) is using the FAT32 file system. I have been advised to change it to NTFS format as this is a more up to date system.

How do I do it?

miltski

reinstall windows and format the hdd into NTFS when doing so, you will have to delete the original partition and then create a new one, this is done step by step whilst installing
don't forget to back up all your files etc before reinstalling as the disk will be wiped

kingofturds

iTrader: (1)

Crikey just doing exactly the same thing. What size partition would you recommend on a 20 gig hd?

miltski

unless having two partitions(one for OS and one for files) just do the maximum you can

Hanslow

http://www.microsoft.com/technet/pro...onvertfat.mspx

David_Wallis

convert c: /fs:ntfs

David

jowl

^^^^^ What he said!

a MUCH easier way of doing it!!

BlkKnight

NB do a backup, scandisk first

Be prepaired for wait while it chuggs through (depending on volume of drive / data)

Remster

Many thanks for the replies.

I will do it the simple way from the command prompt then as it appears I don't need to do a full format before converting as i'm currently FAT32.

Is it really worth doing though?

jowl

I tend to always set my systems up with NTFS = helps with file and parition size (less limitations)

I believe it's slightly faster too.

It won't have a negative effect 'upgrading' - and shouldn't take long (a few minutes.

Criss

Doesnt windows XP only support ntfs not fat32 or did I just dream it a while back?

mike1210

supports both but NTFS is defo the best option

Gear Head

iTrader: (2)

I'm a bit of a numptie when it comes to programing? What are the differences between FAT32 and NTFS?

mike1210

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/u...october01.mspx

one article there

http://www.microsoft.com/whdc/system...reinstall.mspx

and another