1. You are viewing our forum as a guest. For full access please Register. WindowsBBS.com is completely free, paid for by advertisers and donations.

Reformatting An External Hardrive

Discussion in 'PC Hardware' started by TBoy34, 2008/06/28.

  1. 2008/06/28
    TBoy34

    TBoy34 Inactive Thread Starter

    Joined:
    2005/07/09
    Messages:
    42
    Likes Received:
    0
    I'm getting ready to purchase a new computer and a new external hardrive for it. It will probably be a 1TB. The question I have is...is it nessassary to reformat the hardrive from FAT32 to NTFS. What is the purpose for this? What is better. Lastly how do you do this?:confused:
     
    TBoy34,
    #1
  2. 2008/06/29
    Arie

    Arie Administrator Administrator Staff

    Joined:
    2001/12/27
    Messages:
    15,174
    Likes Received:
    412
    Why do you think it would be formatted FAT32? I doubt it will be.
     
    Arie,
    #2


  3. to hide this advert.

  4. 2008/06/29
    PeteC

    PeteC SuperGeek Staff

    Joined:
    2002/05/10
    Messages:
    28,896
    Likes Received:
    389
    Hmm - my new Buffalo external drive acquired a few weeks ago was FAT32 I feel sure - it took forever to format (full) to NTFS.

    The limitation of FAT32 is the maximum file size of 4 Gb (less 1 byte?)- if that is not a perceived problem FAT32 will suffice if it's purely for storage. I prefer NTFS for the security features and, as all my other drives are NTFS, for complete compatability, especially as I share files over my network.

    To format enter Disk Management (right click My Computer icon > Manage > Disk Management - right click on the drive > Format and make your choices. For a new/unused drive a Quick Format should suffice.
     
    PeteC,
    #3
  5. 2008/06/29
    TBoy34

    TBoy34 Inactive Thread Starter

    Joined:
    2005/07/09
    Messages:
    42
    Likes Received:
    0

    Thank you for the advice and information and not a condescending answer like the other one.
     
    TBoy34,
    #4
  6. 2008/06/30
    Arie

    Arie Administrator Administrator Staff

    Joined:
    2001/12/27
    Messages:
    15,174
    Likes Received:
    412
    Hu? I just asked you why you'd think it would be formatted FAT32. Since when is that condescending?

    I checked WD's 1/2 TB My Book, and they are NTFS formatted (check the User Manual), but I now see that most other drives (even at 1TB) are mostly FAT32 formatted.
     
    Arie,
    #5

Share This Page

  1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
    By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
    Accept Learn More...