Solved Another partitioning question

koch · Oct 4, 2008

Keeping data on a separate partition does not pose a significant advantage for me in terms of safeguarding the data, i.e., I backup everything on a daily basis. I also reformat on a regular basis and so the extra time needed to bring everything back to par is not an inconvenience - I actually enjoy it.

Nevertheless, and here's my question, does having the OS on a separate partition really offer enough efficiency and performance gains to justify the partitioning? I realize this depends on how much enough is enough for my taste, but...

So what am I missing conceptually about the whole partitioning thingy?

Brink · Oct 4, 2008

Hello Koch,

You would really only gain more performance if they were on separate hard drives instead of separate partitions on the same hard drive.

Since the other partition (ex: backup) is still on the same hard drive, you could lose both of partitions if the hard drive goes out. However, if only Vista messes up, the other partition can be very helpful to use to restore it if you do not have another hard drive to use instead.

Hope this helps,
Shawn

koch · Oct 4, 2008

So if I don't mind reformatting due to Vista messing up, and reinstalling data and programs (which I do on a regular basis anyway), there's no real advantage to partioning?

Brink · Oct 4, 2008

In a situation like that, it can be helpful to keep your backups, drivers, etc... on the second partiton to copy back over to the main Vista partition after formating it.

SIW2 · Oct 4, 2008

Hi Koch,

I have my o/s and installed apps. on one smallish partition, and my data plus any setup stuff I need - program setup files, exported emails, exported email accounts, exported favourites, etc on another partition.

This is so when I reinstall on the first partition , I have all that to hand on the second partition, without having to use external devices - I find it quicker.
(I also make external backups from time to time of anything really vital )

Another advantage to have a smaller partition for the o/s is that it uses less time and resources to only make system restore pts of that partition, and defrag, run checkdisk, etc.

Hope that helps

SIW2

koch · Oct 4, 2008

Ok, I can see where a second partition would help in simplifying the process. Thanks you guys - very helpful.

Brink · Oct 4, 2008

Your welcome Koch.

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