Changing location of Windows system folders

[Guest]

I am here referring to the "Documents and Settings", "Program Files", and
"WINDOWS" folders.

I did not install Windows XP myself, but I am guessing that you can select
on which Local Disk you want those folders to be installed? But what if I
want to change the location of those folders? Do I have to reinstall Windows?
And I'm always worried about losing files my Local Disks... what will happen
when I reinstall?

Thanks in advance

 

[Doug Knox MS-MVP]

Windows and Documents and Settings must be specified at the time of install. Program Files can be changed after the fact, using TweakUI for Windows XP. Some users report problems after changing the Program Files path after the fact.

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/q236621/

 

[Guest]

So what if I reinstall Windows XP? I can choose where the folders will be
installed, but what happens to my files on both Disks?

I already have those 3 system folders on both disks because they used to be
installed on the D: Drive, but now they were installed in the C: Drive.

So those that were in the "D: Drive" are of no use anymore? Meaning that I
can rename them just so that they don't get replaced when I reinstall windows?

I just hate losing stuff... next time I will Install it myself!

Thanks again for your help..


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[Doug Knox MS-MVP]

During installation, you can choose the partition that Windows will install to, you may have the opportunity to choose the name of the Windows folder. You can only change the default location of Documents and Settings when doing an unattended installation. Your files will remain intact, as long as you don't format, if those files are encrypted, then de-crypt them first, and/or ensure you have exported your encryption keys first.

 

[Gerry Cornell]

Lili

Why do you wish to make changes? There may be another way to resolve
what is bothering you?

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Hope this helps.

Gerry
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[Guest]

It's just because I want to use the 30 GB drive those system folders are now
to put all my files (music, pictures, school documents...) and use the
smaller 6 GB drive to put the Windows stuff. It used to be like that, now
there are too many folders in the drive where the system folders are...

--------------------------------------

 

[Gerry Cornell]

Have you considered partitioning leaving Windows Xp where it is?

http://aumha.org/a/parts.htm

You would something like Bootit NG,
www.bootitng.com -- 30-days fully functional shareware.

To get it click on the Download Option ( as distinct from Purchase
Option).


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Hope this helps.

Gerry
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