Windows 8 SSD "Users" directory problems at junctions
Windows 8 SSD "Users" directory problems at junctions
Here are some details about your setup and what you might consider next.
The system runs Windows 8.1 with a new 1TB SSD and an empty HDD. You moved the Users folder to the HDD to reduce clutter, but encountered several problems during installation.
Potential issues include difficulty changing the account picture, trouble accessing More PC Settings, and inability to run Defrag or open Control Panel administrative tools.
Many users report similar challenges when transferring the Users folder to a HDD—some face errors during Windows updates.
You may want to try reinstalling Windows 8 if needed, then decide whether to keep the Users folder on the SSD or move it elsewhere for better performance.
For organizing files, consider creating junctions only for folders that need frequent access or large volumes, such as Documents, Videos, and Downloads.
It’s better to avoid moving the whole Users folder. You don’t have to reinstall Windows 8, nor should you delete the Users folder entirely—it won’t break the Symbiotic Link.
Following the linked instructions should allow you to undo the steps; simply restore the folders, remove them from the HDD, and revert registry entries back to the C: drive. This method can adjust the default installation paths for programs like "Program Files" and "Program Files (x86)", though you’ll need to manually reinstall any apps set in the old locations. You can find more details on changing default installs here: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windo...253b893343. It’s safe since it only alters the default setting, preserving correct installation spots. Avoid redirecting program and user folders directly. For personal folder management, see: http://www.techsupportalert.com/content/...-drive.htm. This also applies to the three AppData directories ("Local", "LocalLow" and "Roaming"), though not the AppData folder itself. It’s helpful for software such as Minecraft or Google Earth that store data in AppData folders. Using this approach, you can rebuild the "Users" folder layout on a secondary HDD, keeping those locations intact except AppData, which stays unchanged but can be moved. You might even duplicate the User folder and set up new paths without losing data or settings. If you need further assistance, feel free to ask.
I updated my user folder location on Windows 7 to D:. I modified the registry setting that tells Windows where new user folders are placed. You can view the relevant registry file here: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\MICROSOFT\WINDOWS NT\CurrentVersion\ProfileList. If you set the "ProfilesDirectory" to something like "D:\Users", all new users will have their folders there. Here’s a brief overview of what I noticed:
- There’s no assurance everything will function perfectly. I’ve experienced no problems on Windows 7, but some users report issues after upgrading or applying updates.
- Don’t hold me responsible if something goes wrong. I’m not accountable for any future complications.
- This change only affects new profiles; consider doing it after a clean installation.
- Transferring a profile from one drive to another can be tricky and may cause errors—consider testing in a virtual machine first using VMWare Player or VirtualBox before applying to your main system.