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Question

Need space

Jul 19, 2011 5:54AM PDT

What is the best way to adjust the partition size of the hardrive on a computer running windows XP SP3?

Discussion is locked

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Answer
Never!
Jul 19, 2011 7:43AM PDT

I found most are ill prepared for what happens if the resize fails. Few have the restore media, the XP CD and less have a backup copy of what they can't lose.

I advise one NEVER does this if they must ask!
Bob

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Answer
There really are several ways to approach this
Jul 19, 2011 7:45AM PDT

Option 1: The safest way is usually the most expensive, you can buy a partitioning product like partition magic.
Option 2: Or you could try your luck with freeware like: Easeus Partition Master
link: http://download.cnet.com/Easeus-Partition-Master-Home-Edition/3000-2248_4-10863346.html
Option 3: Lastly, the longer method: downloading the ISO for the latest free OS Ubuntu (Dell even offers this OS as an alternative to Win7 on some systems), burn it to CD (using open source InfraRecorder) and use the GParted software from within the ubuntu OS to repartition the hard drive to accomidate a second OS in whatever praportion you tell it too.

But any option you choose, you need to know what your doing. Although some safety has been put in Option 1 to prevent most screw up's. (not sure about Option 2) But you need some level of understanding the partiton types and OS size requirements or your XP installation may no longer boot up.

If space on your windows drive is what you need, you there are usually 1~2 GB's of files that can be safely removed from the windows folder. Google it.