


How to convert a drive from FAT32 to NTFS without data loss in Windows
Aug 02, 2025 am 10:23 AMYes, you can convert FAT32 to NTFS without losing data, and it can be done using the built-in convert command of Windows. 1. Run the command prompt as an administrator; 2. Enter the command convert D: /fs:ntfs (D: is the drive letter to be converted) and press Enter; 3. Wait for the conversion to complete, and do not interrupt the operation during this period; 4. After the conversion is successful, confirm through File Explorer that the drive file system has changed to NTFS. If the system prompts you to plan to convert at the next restart, enter Y and restart the computer. It is recommended to back up data in advance to prevent accidents. This operation only supports FAT32 to NTFS, which is irreversible, and can retain original files, folders and permissions. NTFS supports single files larger than 4GB, provides file permission control, encryption, and logging functions, and is more suitable for large-capacity drives. The entire process is safe and reliable without formatting.
Converting a drive from FAT32 to NTFS without losing your data is completely possible using a built-in Windows tool — and it's actually pretty straightforward. The best part? You don't need to format the drive or back up your files first (though it's still wise to have a backup just in case).

Here's how to do it safely:
? Use the convert
Command in Command Prompt
Windows includes a command-line utility called convert
that changes a FAT32 partition to NTFS while preserving all your data.

Steps:
-
Open Command Prompt as Administrator
- Press
Win S
, type cmd . - Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator .
- Press
-
Run the Convert Command
- Type the following command, replacing
D:
with your actual drive letter:convert D: /fs:ntfs
- Press Enter .
- Type the following command, replacing
-
Wait for the Process to Complete
- The conversion may take a few minutes, depending on the drive size and amount of data.
- Do not interrupt the process.
-
Check the Results
- Once done, you'll see a message confirming the conversion.
- Open File Explorer and verify the drive now shows as NTFS under its properties.
? If the drive has bad sectors or is in use, Windows might ask to schedule the conversion on the next reboot. Type Y and restart your PC.
?? Important Notes
- Backup First (Recommended) : Even though the process is safe, unexpected power loss or system errors could cause data loss. Always have a recent backup.
- Only Works One Way : You can go from FAT32 → NTFS, but not the reverse without formatting.
- No Data Loss : The
convert
command copies and restructurings data in place — your files, folders, and permissions remain intact. - Drive Must Be Accessible : The drive shouldn't be write-protected or corrupted.
Why Convert to NTFS?
- Supports files larger than 4GB (FAT32's limit).
- Better security with file permissions and encryption.
- Improved reliability with journaling and error recovery.
- More efficient for large drives (over 32GB).
Basically, just run convert D: /fs:ntfs
in an admin Command Prompt, and you're good. It's a simple, built-in solution that's been reliable for years. Just don't skip the backup — peace of mind is worth it.
The above is the detailed content of How to convert a drive from FAT32 to NTFS without data loss in Windows. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!

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