How do I split the system partition (C:) in Windows7 without creating a dynamic drive?

How do I split the system partition (C:) in Windows7 without creating a dynamic drive? I just recieved a new laptop, and for some reason the manufacturer decided that one great C: drive and no other (user available) partitions was the way to go. I would like to have two partitions - one for OS/Program files and one for my personal data (documents, photos etc.).
Asked by: Guest \| Views: 291

Total answers/comments: 5

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bert [Entry]

"What about doing the partitioning using LiveCD?

You can use Ubuntu for example (or any rescue disc LiveCD which comes with GParted). I prefer Ubuntu because you can use Firefox, pidgin, anything while you mess with the partitions. Like browse the web, check a howto, anything.

Or just copy files easily with the file manager. Boot it up, open a Terminal, and type:

sudo gparted

With the graphical partition manager, create the wanted ones, shrink your current one, do whatever you just want. Apply the changes.

Boot into Windows and if you just can't see it, assign a drive letter. At the managing step, where you wanted to do the partitioning. Right click on the new one.

Let me warn you, always do a backup before you mess with partitions. Another thing: it'll take a lot of time to resize the partition if you got some data there. If you want, of course you can use any Windows based live discs around there.. which I don't really see quite often."

bert [Entry]

You really need to check compatibility, how to do things safely, backing up important data and such, but I have used gparted in a lot of circumstances and really liked it.

bert [Entry]

I thought it wasn't possible to resize a mounted partition and that's why it's typically done when booted from another, non-disk based media (ex. Live CD). I'll give a thumbs up to GParted.
I thought it wasn't possible to resize a mounted partition and that's why it's typically done when booted from another, non-disk based media (ex. Live CD). I'll give a thumbs up to GParted.

bert [Entry]

The reason is simple: Windows 7 allows a maximum of four primary partitions and you already having the maximum. Delete any one primary partition (after moving its data to some backup or in another disk) and then you can create one logical partition.

bert [Entry]

The same problem occurred to me. I solved it by deleting one of the existing partitions, as I had four existing partitions. I deleted one of them. Then I tried to create a new partition and I succeeded.