[Harusp3x]

Would it be possible to create a partition with no OS and install all software on it? If so, would it be a good idea?

 

[JohnWill]

IMO, no. Since any re-install of Windows involves installing all the applications again anyway, what would be gained?

 

[Frank4d]

If you install application software on a separate non-OS partition, it will still install registry keys and DLLs on your OS partition. So if either partition (or separate hard drive) crashes you will have to reinstall all of the application software.

The only benefit I can see is if your separate non-OS partition or separate hard drive dies, Windows would still run.

 

[JohnWill]

Perhaps, but I see a ton of disadvantages.

 

[redoak]

Hi: If I understand the the recommendation, it is to have ALL programs installed on "C," along with the OS. Correct?

I haven't done that, following a contrary recommendation of some two years ago when I set up my computer. My application programs are on "D." I now understand that parts of them have/may have been put on "C." My data files are on "E."

I backup everything weekly to an external HD using Acronis' TrueImage. I also use Cobian for misc. backups. I have PartitionMagic, so I could supposedly combine "D" with "C." I would have a viable TI backup just in case disaster occurred! Should I go this route at this time? I have many application programs on "D."

{redoak}

 

[Noyb]

..Hi: If I understand the the recommendation, it is to have ALL programs installed on "C," along with the OS. Correct? ...

I'm far from being a wizard .. But that's what I do.

My C: partition is the OS and ALL installed programs ... anything it takes to run my computer.
My second partition is ALL my stored data .. I'm a pack rat and keep just about everything.

This makes the maintenance of C: (Defraging or scanning for Malware) very quick and simple.
Also ... System recovery is very quick n simple .. I can rewrite my C: system and not worry about the stored Data partition.
You'll have to move "My Documents" - or just not use it .. because it's stored in the C: partition.

Now .. You can backup everything to an external HD .. including the Acronis Recovery image(s) .. as just data files.
You can also hide an Acronis Recovery image in your Data partition and recover from it .. if you have enough space.

Not sure how you'd combine your C: and D:

 

[redoak]

Thanks, "Noyb" for responding. PM does have a mode for combining partitions. I understand it is a risky endeavor, however. That is why a TI image backup is so important.

I am so used to operating as I am set up that I am going to "leave good enough alone." I don't find the extra partition bothersome in any way. If and when I have to reestablish my system, I'll deal with the complications, if any.

{redoak}

 

[Noyb]

Yea .. Don't fix it - till its Broke.
I can imagine that Data partitions could be merged....
But wouldn't operating systems and installed programs involve registry changes also ???

IMO .. Too many partitions is a waste of valuable space ... extra (double) unused space that can't be cross accessed.

Which brings up the question ... Why two partitions on you XHD ???
Acronis backups are just data files ... Why not one large XHD data partition ???

I can see a separate partition in the XHD for an (emergency) hardware backup OS drive ...
But since you have a Laptop ... This might be a problem... (different style drives)

 

[redoak]

"Noyb": I guess I wanted to make use of PM after buying it!! No, only partially true. You see, I didn't have the advantage of many hours perusing TSG for info that would make me a more sophisticated user of computer equipment and programs when I partitioned the XHDD. At the time I thought it would be best to put the Acronis TI images in one and Cobian backed up misc. files in another. I have since realized what you point out is true. Further, one of the regular "experts" here has mentioned that folders can be used in a manner to mimic partitions.

I am no where near running out of space on my primary HDD. I drop off outdated backups from the XHDD when space is needed. That is necessary with TI especially. I still can keep three backups in place at one time, however.

Nice chatting with you- {redoak}