Merging C and D-drives in Win7 without deleting the data?

[Elk248]

Hi. Is it possible to merge C and D drives without deleting the data or having to format them. If it's possible, then how to do this in Windows 7? Notice both drives are almost full of data (not many games or programs).

 

[Brett928S2]

Hi

Partitions or actual drives ?

All the best Brett

 

[szaboaz]

It's not possible.

I'm assuming partition C is your system partition, and D is data partition. You'll need another (possibly external usb) hard disk drive to copy all your files from partition D. Furthermore, it's recommended to make a backup of partition C also, because manipulating partitions counts as risky, and a little precaution can prevent hours of painful recovery process.

When that's done, you can use the Disk Management tool to delete partition D, and extend partition C to the free space gained.

Here's how to open Disk Management tool:
http://pcsupport.about.com/od/windows7/ht/disk-management-windows-7.htm

After that you can copy your files from partition D back.

 

[Elk248]

Ok thank you. So I can keep all the files on C while I do this and just temporarily take D's files out, then extend C while C's files are still on C and put D's files to the bigger C afterwards?

 

[dodger46]

Ok thank you. So I can keep all the files on C while I do this and just temporarily take D's files out, then extend C while C's files are still on C and put D's files to the bigger C afterwards?

That's it, backup 'D', delete 'D', expand 'C' into the unallocated space, restore 'D' data to 'C'
Personally i use Easeus Partition Manager as i find it easier to use and have never had a failure
http://download.cnet.com/EaseUS-Partition-Master-Home-Edition/3000-2248_4-10863346.html

 

[Elk248]

Cheers. I might try this program in couple of weeks when my new comp arrives. Ty for the help.

 

[Elk248]

If I merge the partitions by using Windows Disk Management tool, how do I exactly do it? Do I delete D like in this screenshot? If so, what do I do after I've deleted D to make C bigger?

Right click "View Image" to see the pic bigger.

 

[dodger46]

Not familiar with Disk Management, always used Easeus, but 'Delete Volume' should remove 'D' and then when you select 'C' it should include 'Extend Volume' which will give you the opportunity to increase 'C' into the now unallocated space left by deleting 'D'.

 

[Elk248]

Ty and this wont put the files that are currently in C in jeopardy? So i can extend the C-partition without a risk of having my C files gone?

 

[dodger46]

Hmmm. Just tried that on a spare laptop, partition deleted ok, and free space reported as expected, but when I tried to extend 'C' the option is greyed out. Think you'd best download Easeus, it's much more comprehensive and versatile!

 

[dodger46]

Disk Management screen

http://prntscr.com/b7gf1

Easeus screen

http://prntscr.com/b7gh

Simply slide the end of the 'C' bar to the end of its window, 'OK' then 'Apply' and all will be done!


http://prntscr.com/b7gy9

 

[Elk248]

Thanks. I'll try Easeus and what you said.