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While most modern hard drives are already set up as NTFS file systems, older systems (such as a computer that has been upgraded to Windows XP from Windows 98/ME) can greatly benefit from NTFS, due to its several benefits in security, reliability, and increased read/write performance. Here is how to convert your file system to NTFS using Windows XP's built-in file, convert.exe.

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Steps

  1. Convert a FAT32 File System to NTFS in Windows XP Step 1.jpg
    1
    Back up any important data on your computer. This is not mandatory, since no formatting takes place and the conversion process is nearly flawless, but it's best to play it safe.
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  2. Convert a FAT32 File System to NTFS in Windows XP Step 2.jpg
    2
    Click on Start.
  3. Convert a FAT32 File System to NTFS in Windows XP Step 3.jpg
    3
    Type CMD and press enter to open the Command prompt.
  4. Convert a FAT32 File System to NTFS in Windows XP Step 4.jpg
    4
    Type VOL C: and press enter. This will display your hard drive's label (if applicable) and serial number. Take note of these, as you will need them to convert the drive.
  5. Convert a FAT32 File System to NTFS in Windows XP Step 5.jpg
    5
    Type CONVERT C: /FS:NTFS and press enter.
  6. 6
    Enter the requested information that you retained from above.
  7. Convert a FAT32 File System to NTFS in Windows XP Step 7.jpg
    7
    Confirm that you wish to convert your drive by entering "Y" accordingly.
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Tips

  • Your hard drive may reboot to prepare itself for conversion. This is normal.
  • Let your computer idle while the conversion takes place. Do not run any unnecessary applications.
  • Due to the nature of the file system, you cannot install multiple operating systems on a pure NTFS hard drive. If this is your intention, you may want to partition a section of your drive to FAT or FAT32.

Warnings

  • Using convert.exe cannot be reverted. You will not be able to convert back to an FAT32 file system from NTFS. However, you can get your file system back to FAT32 by re-formatting the drive.
  • There is a small chance that files might get corrupted when converting your file system.

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Article Info

Categories: XP Instructions

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Español: Cómo convertir un sistema de archivos FAT32 a NTFS en Windows XP

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