Attempting to set up Windows on a GPT drive.
Attempting to set up Windows on a GPT drive.
Hello everyone, I'm trying to reinstall Windows 10 and my old drive is in a MBR format. Some research suggested that changing to GPT might improve performance, but I installed Windows and it remained in MBR. After formatting the drive to GPT first, I still couldn't get Windows to recognize it. I downloaded a Rufus ISO bootable drive in GPT, turned off CSM and secure boot in my BIOS, but the installation failed. I disabled those settings and tried again. My PC specs are listed here: https://pcpartpicker.com/user/nolomo/saved/dBvYNG. I’m not sure if the BIOS version affects this, but I’ll check soon. The BIOS is currently P4.50. Since it’s not working and I can’t boot anything, I’m assuming it won’t work with this setup. Maybe later I’ll try again. Edited September 9, 2022 by NoLoMo
Windows sometimes struggles with the original installation USB and secure boot features if it isn<|pad|>, especially when using a GPT disk. Check if you can start the installation USB in UEFI mode and attempt the setup again.
A new 1600 is priced at $277 atm. That’s really cool how GPT works. MBR is an older system. GPT offers several benefits. I think something might be off and you’ll need to reformat and use diskpart again. I guess @Robchil has more expertise on this than me. I’d listen to him first. Updated September 9, 2022 by Bombastinator
I explored all available methods including Windows built-in UEFI, UEFI EFI, Partition 1 and Partition 2. None succeeded. The system kept looping back to the start and blocked progress. For USB, I used Rufus to format with ISO and via Windows Creation Media, but both attempts failed. The 970 EVO was formatted to GPT using AEOMI Partition Manager (name forgotten) before installation. I gave up and reverted to MBR. What are the key missing elements? I might try again this weekend since I was exhausted and desperate for a fix.
Key points confirmed. Secure boot TPM is functioning properly. Upgrading to Windows 11 is possible, but you may need to reinstall if the installation media was created on MBR. I recall seeing this scenario—when the RUFUS USB was made, the installation media was on MBR. Did you turn off antivirus during setup?
The count of potential partitions is quite significant. GPT tends to be more reliable. Losing both MBR copies means you’re in trouble. MBR is prone to errors. With GPT, you’ll find fewer recovery commands needed. There are other factors at play, but they’re hard to grasp. GPT is kept in a distinct manner and location compared to MBR. Certain malware targets the MBR, making it a common vulnerability. Edited September 9, 2022 by Bombastinator
In short, it's worth the effort to try and fix it. A little frustration doesn't hurt, right? Learning something new is always good.