Dividing disk into multiple partitions can make search and retrival of data easier. A partition separate from the operating system and applications simplifies backups and can increase PC’s performance. If any one is planning to have mutiple operating systems then he or she must make a different partition. Each partition uses a File System to store data. NTFS file system is introduced by Windows NT, which uses space more efficiently and offers better data security. Partitioning of a blank or new hard drive is always easy.

It involves following steps:

Step 1:

Search for “My computer” icon in “Start” menu; right-click on it, and select “Manage” from the options.

How to partition a hard drive

Step 2:

A new window named “Computer Management” will appear on the screen. Select Storage from the options available on the left side.

How to partition a hard drive

Step 3:

Then go for the “Disk Management (local)” from the options available on the right hand side. Double – click on it.

How to partition a hard drive

Step 4:

Now a list having all of the available partitions on hard disk will pop up.

Step 5:

Delete the partition you want to delete from the hard drive. To do so, right-click on the partition’s name and select “Delete Partition” from the options. Click on “Yes” to confirm the deletion.

How to partition a hard drive

Step 6:

Now a box will appear that reads “Unallocated disk”. You need to right-click on the box and then select “New Partition” from the options. The “New Partition Wizard” will now show up. Choose “Primary Partition”; then choose the appropriate size and drive letter. Finally, the wizard will ask about the “File System” of new partition. You can choose NTFS or FAT32. NTFS is faster and more secure. Also, leave the “Allocation Unit Size” to default, and enter the drive letter in the “Volume Label field”. If the drive has never been used before, then check “Perform a Quick Format”, otherwise leave it unchecked. Also leave the Enable File and Folder Compression unchecked and click “Next” to format the drive.

Step 7:

The wizard will now start formatting the drive. While it is formatting the drive, do not close the Computer Management window. The formatting is complete when the status changes to “Healthy” from “Formatting”.

Newly formatted drive can be used now to store data. You can open “My Computer” and see the new partition there on the list.