Best Way to Convert FAT 32 to NTFS without Losing Data in Windows 7/10/11
Introduction of FAT 32 and NTFS
FAT32 and NTFS are two common file systems. FAT32 is widely supported by hard drives, DVD players, game consoles, and operating systems such as Windows XP, Linux, Mac, Android, and Windows Phone. However, FAT32 has important limits: a single file cannot exceed 4GB, and a partition cannot exceed 2TB.
NTFS supports much larger files and partitions, making it a better choice for large storage needs. It is recommended by Microsoft and is used by Windows 7 and later systems. However, NTFS may not be supported by some devices, such as older game consoles or systems that do not recognize NTFS natively.
If you need to save a 10GB movie or another large file on a FAT32 drive, the file size limit will block the operation. Converting the file system to NTFS solves this problem and allows the drive to store larger files.
Convert FAT32 to NTFS using CMD
Step 1: Go to Start > All Programs > Accessories > Command Prompt.
Step 2: In Command Prompt, type "convert drive_letter: /fs:ntfs". Replace "drive_letter" with the actual drive letter, such as "E:" for the E drive. For example, type "convert E: /fs:ntfs" and press Enter.
Step 3: If prompted, enter the current volume label for the drive and press Enter. The conversion will start and change the file system to NTFS.
This method is relatively simple for experienced users, but Command Prompt is not always friendly for beginners. Before changing a file system, back up important data to avoid unexpected loss.
To convert FAT32 to NTFS without formatting, you can use Qiling Disk Master Professional. It can change the file system between FAT32 and NTFS on Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10, and 11.
How to convert FAT32 to NTFS and keep data?
Step 1: Download this Qiling NTFS to FAT32 Convertor, install and run it. Click "Convert" in the top toolbar, and choose "Convert to NTFS/FAT32".
Step 2: Select the partition you want to convert from the list and click "Next". After the conversion finishes, open Disk Management to verify the file system.
After the steps are complete, the partition is converted to NTFS without requiring a reboot. This method also works for USB drives and external hard drives as long as Windows can recognize them.
Qiling Disk Master also provides other disk management features, such as converting disks between MBR and GPT, making it useful for broader partition and disk maintenance tasks.
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