Convert FAT32 to NTFS without data loss

March 22, 2009 3:05 PM

Is it possible to convert an external drive that is FAT32 to NTFS on Windows Vista without any data loss on the drive?
posted by NoMich to computers & internet (5 answers total)

Use Convert.exe. Additionally, furthermore.
posted by niles at 3:11 PM on March 22, 2009

Yes, it's possible.

Without a backup, though, it's a risky plan; and if you have another drive to make a backup on, you might as well just format that NTFS and do a file-by-file copy.
posted by flabdablet's sock puppet at 3:41 PM on March 22, 2009

Thanks niles. I followed the instructions as found in the 'Convert.exe' link and was able to convert the drive to NTSF with no loss of data.
posted by NoMich at 5:19 PM on March 22, 2009

It's not risky at all to use convert.exe. There is almost no chance for data loss.

It is good to always have a backup though.
posted by zephyr_words at 10:27 PM on March 22, 2009

There is almost no chance for data loss

Don't know about "almost no chance". Convert.exe nastified a drive for me once when the power went out partway through.
posted by flabdablet's sock puppet at 8:29 PM on March 23, 2009