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General discussion

FAT32 Vs NTFS

Dec 15, 2003 4:39PM PST

I am getting a new computer which is to be clean-installed with Windows XP Pro, but I am undecided on which file system to use- FAT32 or NTFS. What is so new about this 'New Technology', which I am told is "only for XP Pro" ? What are the pros and cons of NTFS ? I would be grateful for views and experiences of users who have opt for one and then have it changed for the other becaues of some 'issues' they have found in their particular circumstances.

Thanks.
christy.

Discussion is locked

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Re:FAT32 Vs NTFS
Dec 15, 2003 7:44PM PST

If you are only using XP then NTFS is the better choice.
If you intend to save video/movie files which can exceed 4 GB in size then you'll need NTFS since FAT32 has a limit of 4 GB.
NTFS is also more stable, robust & secure than FAT32.

Unless you have a dual-boot set up with WinME or 98 + XP and need to access the XP partition there is no reason to use FAT32.

Do a Google search and read the links:
NTFS vs FAT32

Or open the Help & Support Center and research the subject.

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Re:FAT32 Vs NTFS
Dec 16, 2003 5:08AM PST

NTFS is a recoverable file system--FAT is not

On large volumes NTFS is generally a faster file system than FAT

NTFS allows encryption if desired as well as assigning permissions at the file level

NTFS allows you to make better use of the drive by reducing slack plus it doesn't waste a tremendous amount of storage space on dual FAT tables.

Here is a link in the Online Resource Kit you can start with regarding Windows File Systems.

http://www.microsoft.com/technet/treeview/default.asp?url=/technet/prodtechnol/winxppro/Default.asp

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Re:FAT32 Vs NTFS
Dec 16, 2003 8:13AM PST

XP Home also has the option of NTFS or FAT32 FYI