Disk partitioning divides the data storage space of a hard disk into separate areas referred to as ‘partitions’. Partitions are usually created when the hard disk is first being prepared for usage. Once a disk is divided into partitions, directories and files may be stored on them. Because of later changes on the computer and operating system, often an administrator or power user will be faced with the need to resize partitions, create new partitions in the unallocated space, and sometimes even undelete partitions that were previously removed or deleted.

Hard Drive Partitioning:  Use Caution!

Most tools will let you convert a partition from one file type to another, i.e. from NTFS to FAT/FAT32 or vice versa. Needless to say that in most cases, such a conversion, especially from NTFS to FAT/FAT32 will cause the files to lose their NTFS permissions (ACLs), and in some cases where EFS was used to encrypt the files, it will actually cause you to lose access to these files. So beware!

Some of these tools may be able to help you recover deleted partitions, and if data on that disk was un-damaged, actually help you gain access to that data. Some, but not all of the tools may have the ability to move existing partitions from one location on the disk to another location, again, without losing data.

Note: We’ve tried to make this guide as definitive as possible, there are always changes in the software world that we’re not aware of. We would gladly accept your feedback, comments and tool recommendations. Please limit your feedback to freeware utilities.

Disclaimer: The author of this article cannot be held responsible for any data loss or computer malfunction due to using any of the tools listed in this article. Please carefully read the software creators’ read-me files and manuals, and always test before using any tool on a computer or hard disk that holds critical information.  Remember as well that free products rarely, if ever, provide any kind of end user support other than forum or community support.  If you’re unsure of what you’re doing, or need technical support, it’s best to go with a paid product.

Free Partition Tools

1.EaseUs Partition Manager

EaseUs Partition Master Home Edition is a FREE disk partitioning utility that offers a powerful range of functions such as resizing partitions, formatting partitions, copying partitions, creating new partitions, deleting partitions, hiding partitions, changing drive letters, setting active partitions, and a handful other functions. Some of the main characteristics of EaseUs Partition Manager are:

• Material support for RAID
• Re-size and move partitions without losing data
• Create and delete partitions with a simple stage
• Allocated in a partition to make easier recognition
• Format of partitions by simple click
• Partition of ownership of every partition
• Conceal and to show partitions – to protect important data
• Specify a boot partition
• Outline of the effects of partitioning of a hard disk before applying
• Works on hard disks of 20GB to 800GB

Note: EaseUs Partition Master Home Edition ONLY supports 32 bit Windows systems. If your computer is running 64 bit Windows systems, please check the Professional or Server editions which are not free.

Get EaseUs Partition Manager here: