The older Operating Systems (OS) having somewhat handicapped working ability could not handle a larger memory system; thus the hard disk used to be partitioned so that the OS could use the memory allocation more efficiently and easily. The case is not similar to the modern-day Operating Systems which can manage the large hard drive memory with the improved FAT32 (file management system). However, there still exists the necessity of disk partitioning. But what is a partition in disk management system? Why would still require partitioning? What are its advantages or disadvantages if there is any and above all, what does actually partitioning mean in modern-day computer technology- today’s discussion is all about answering these questions.
What is a Partition?
Partition, partitioning, or disk partitioning is the function of separating the hard drive (HDD) or solid-state drive (SSD) into multiple sections to ease the overall file management system. Partition is actually a logical operation. The memory drive is not separated into many parts physically; rather it is so re-arranged that the OS takes the different sections as the distinct drives. Hence, we can say that partition is an operation to fool our OS!
You must have seen that there are multiple drives available on your computer- drive (A), drive (B), drive (C), or drive (D), and so on. By default, the partitioning is done while installing the operating system and you find that the hard drive is already spat. The most popular OS, Windows, along with the basic drives are generally installed on the drive (c) and you should not save other files or programs like songs, movies, games on this drive as formatting can remove the application files along with the system files. You can also further partition the hard drive manually for a better allocation system.
Why is Partition Necessary?
Partitioning the hard drive or SSD memory is crucial in the file management operation. The logical partitioning allows the operating system to find the required data and also to save the processed data on the pre-defined area quickly and easily.
The commonly used files should always be stored on a separate drive. Whenever Windows falls into any erroneous condition and you want to re-install the OS with a formatting operation, then all the files that remain along with the files of the system disk are also deleted. That’s why you should store photos, videos, and other media files on a separate partition.
If you want to run two operating systems on the computer, then the partition is a must. Both the OS needs to know their allotted memory area in order to function properly. The two operating systems will view the partitioned hard drive as the distinct physical hard drives and there will be no hustle while working at the same time.
Separating personal data from the system file can secure valuable data from a major crash. Separate backups also help the user restoring important files in a better way whenever needed. You can also increase the volume of a certain drive or decrease another to fit your needs.
How to do Partition?
The primary partitioning is carried out while installing the OS disk and your hard drive or SSD is divided into multiple parts. Many users are finical in arranging the data and files on their computer and they demand further partitioning which can be done either with the ‘Windows Disk Management or with the dedicated tool like ‘Paragon’.
You can go to the Disk Management window by searching from the Windows search bar, or Cortana. Here, the status of all the partitioned drives is shown along with the capacity and free space available. You can extend or shrinkage any drive by right-clicking on the mouse and then selecting one. Formatting operation followed by the drive specifying operation is required to complete the process.
What are the Disadvantages of Partition?
There are few cons of disk partitioning which you should also be aware of. Some of the most common disadvantages are mentioned here:
- The overall capacity of the drive may decrease.
- You have to perform the partitioning operation intelligently, otherwise, data may be lost.
- Moving installed programs from one partition to another is a complex matter.
Conclusion
I hope the article was helpful in understanding the partition with an in-depth analysis. You should be able to decide whether or not to use partition and to what degree. Stay in touch for the next article. Till then, goodbye!
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