FAT32 to NTFS - Is it safe?

[5872]

Is it Safe Enough to convert my system from FAT32 to NTFS?, or shall I just leave it?.

 

[D306]

IIRC if you change it, it'll format itself to reflect the change

 

[5872]

IIRC if you change it, it'll format itself to reflect the change

Hmm, I'm not in the mood for a complete revamp of my computer again. Thanks for the heads up mparsonz.

 

[Craig]

Anything to do with your hard drive (changing format, adding partitions, etc.) is best done with a complete format.

 

[Tom B]

The best way to lose FAT is to exercise.

 

[Nym]

and somtimes FST32 is better than NTFS, depends on what you're storeing.

We had a log file server that we spent ages trying to get back to FAT32, because NTFS used 4MB/file! an they where 200k log files!

 

[will1337]

Yeah, it's not very good for lots of tiny files. It is possible to convert the file system from FAT32 to NTFS with a command I cannot remember without it reformatting but you should backup first.

 

[Nym]

you can do it in NT Disk Manager if I'm remembering right

 

[mbonwick]

Yes, it can be done in disk manager, and without a complete reformat. In fact I don't think it has to be formatted - you can keep your data. best to back up though.

 

[Nym]

Somthing like Powerquest Disk Image would be good for backing up...

 

[Nick W]

I'm surprised people are still using such poor a file system as FAT32 in 2008!

 

[mbonwick]

That is eactly what I was thinking..NTFS is much better for allocation (except in teh situation pointed out above) and security

 

[5872]

Well I have everything on a hard drive... Anyone want to explain how to do it without a total format? .