Review the process for handling outdated hard disk drives.

HaiassZ
Junior Member

11-28-2016, 05:59 PM

Hey everyone, just installed a new SSD today to replace my WD Blue 500GB. Instead of moving data, I went straight for a fresh setup. I created a partition during installation and did a clean install. Now when I start my PC, two Windows options appear right before login. I’ve backed up everything and am about to format the old HDD when I noticed something odd—Disk 2, which I’m formatting, still shows the two extra partitions from when I first installed Windows 10. I’m unsure if it’s safe to wipe the whole disk or just the partitions. I didn’t unplug the WD Blue during the installation of the new Windows 10 on the SSD. Disk 0 holds the new OS, while Disk 1 is my 1TB storage for games and media. Disk 2 is the one I’m trying to clear. The red markers are what I’m worried about formatting, and I’m wondering if it will affect performance. Edit: Made the text clearer and trimmed out extra details. Also, since backing up all files took a long time, I don’t think reinstalling Windows is a good idea.

HaiassZ

11-28-2016, 05:59 PM #1

duhazneubin
Senior Member

583

11-28-2016, 06:32 PM

These two sections are additional partitions created by Windows when installing the operating system. They hold essential system files and related data. The image is unclear, but it displays the installation confirmation dialog you would have accepted.

duhazneubin

11-28-2016, 06:32 PM #2

SkullyRoger
Member

147

12-01-2016, 05:20 AM

I noticed this when I first set up Windows. The SSD was there to boost speed, but having both partitions on a slower drive might slow things down overall.

SkullyRoger

12-01-2016, 05:20 AM #3

I noticed this when I first set up Windows. The SSD was there to boost speed, but having both partitions on a slower drive might slow things down overall.

Zyrn
Member

12-08-2016, 03:21 AM

Consider disconnecting any HDDs before installing the OS on SSD. Also, formatting or unplugging the HDD will halt the boot process.

Zyrn

12-08-2016, 03:21 AM #4

Consider disconnecting any HDDs before installing the OS on SSD. Also, formatting or unplugging the HDD will halt the boot process.

Zaxi
Junior Member

12-08-2016, 05:38 AM

To determine the space used, just remove the existing volumes and create a fresh partition.

Zaxi

12-08-2016, 05:38 AM #5

To determine the space used, just remove the existing volumes and create a fresh partition.

Flundi
Member

231

12-08-2016, 01:35 PM

These partitions are meant for system files and shouldn't be affected by drive letters. You shouldn't touch them in any case. However, if you wish to remove Windows from the drive, you can delete them.

Flundi

12-08-2016, 01:35 PM #6

CelticGila
Senior Member

454

12-09-2016, 11:36 PM

The OS can start even if it's on a different disk. Those partitions were created during the Windows setup on the HDD, which is the method the OP intends to eliminate.

CelticGila

12-09-2016, 11:36 PM #7

The OS can start even if it's on a different disk. Those partitions were created during the Windows setup on the HDD, which is the method the OP intends to eliminate.

Wero_NIKI
Member

181

12-11-2016, 03:20 PM

Others previously warned against this approach, stating it could damage the OS if I disconnect or reformat the SSD. To avoid future issues, I chose to back up everything and start a fresh Windows installation on the SSD now.

Wero_NIKI

12-11-2016, 03:20 PM #8

II_RIPTIDE_II
Member

167

12-12-2016, 08:45 AM

They didn't grasp it. These are for the old Windows setup on the HDD, while the SSD remains independent. Windows wouldn't store crucial system files on another drive.

II_RIPTIDE_II

12-12-2016, 08:45 AM #9

They didn't grasp it. These are for the old Windows setup on the HDD, while the SSD remains independent. Windows wouldn't store crucial system files on another drive.