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How to Convert NTFS to FAT32 without Data Loss in Windows

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This tutorial demonstrates how to convert NTFS to FAT32 without data loss in Windows 10 and Windows 11. Changing from NTFS to FAT32 can make disks and partitions compatible with older devices and software and works for both internal and external storage devices.

Understanding NTFS and FAT32

New Technology File System (NTFS) and File Allocation Table 32-bit (FAT32) are file systems developed by Microsoft for use with the Windows family of operating systems. A file system specifies the way files are kept on a physical storage device such as a hard drive or USB stick, and tracks where files are kept on the physical device (for example, the location of a file’s data on a disk platter). Alongside file data itself, the file system stores information used for permissions, encryption, compression, and file recovery.

NTFS is the file system used by modern Windows operating systems, including Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server. It provides many advantages over the legacy FAT32 file system that was the default in Windows from Windows 95 OSR2 until Windows 2000, but these features come at the cost of compatibility with some devices.

FeatureNTFSFAT32
Maximum file size16 TB4 GB
Maximum partition size8 PB2 TB
CompatibilityModern Windows, macOS, and Linux (read-only, additional third-party software may be required to write data)All versions of Windows, macOS, Linux, and other devices like game consoles, mobile devices, and embedded systems
Journaling (reduced risk of data corruption)YesNo
File permissions and securityYes (access control lists, encryption)No
CompressionYesNo
ReliabilityMore stable with improved error recoveryProne to data loss or corruption from crashes, power loss
Ideal use casesInternal hard disks, SSDs, system partitions, Windows installations, large external hard disksSmall external USB drives, USB sticks, MMC cards, storage for use with devices that don’t run Windows

NTFS is ideal for use for system drives, as well as internal and external drives that will only be used with Windows PCs. FAT32 is best used where support for older devices is required or the drive will be used with other operating systems (including macOS and Linux, which have limited NTFS support).

If compatibility with macOS and Linux is the goal, you should also consider ExFAT, which has wide compatibility but does not have the file size limitations of FAT32.

Preparing for the conversion from NTFS to FAT32

Before you attempt any file system conversion (or other maintenance or partitioning) on a storage device with data you want to keep, you should back up all of the data on it to a separate physical storage device. Before you convert from NTFS to FAT32 you should also check that the data you wish to retain is compatible: FAT32 only supports files up to 4 GB in size, and partitions can only be up to 2 TB in size.

You can check the drive’s file system (both before to check if conversion is necessary and after to confirm a successful conversion from NTFS to FAT32) by following these steps:

  • Opening the Windows File Explorer
  • Click on My PC in the navigation sidebar
  • Right-click on a drive and select Properties
  • The current file system will be displayed in the Properties dialog

Window displaying Disk Properties and file system NTFS

The methods described below work on both internal and external hard drives.

How to convert NTFS to FAT32 with no data loss

While the process is intended to convert from NTFS to FAT32 with no data loss, if the process is interrupted or an error occurs, data loss or corruption may still happen. Again, it is vital that your data is backed up to a separate device before you attempt this.

Generally, it is more reliable to move your data to another device and re-partition/re-format your NTFS drive to FAT32 using built-in Windows tools, then copy the data back.

  • Download and install AOMEI NTFS to FAT32 Converter (be sure to choose the standard edition, skip the installation of the paid Pro edition, and opt out of the user experience improvement program)
  • Open the NTFS to FAT32 Converter tool using the desktop shortcut or from the Start menu
  • Click the Convert button and then Convert NTFS/FAT32

Disk Partition window showing conversion from NTFS to FAT32

  • In the conversion window that appears, select NTFS to FAT32 and click Next

NTFS to FAT32 Converter window

  • Select the NTFS partition to convert and click Next

NTFS to FAT32 Converter check and repair window

  • The tool will check if the partition is compatible. If it is, review the changes that will be made and confirm by pressing Proceed

Successful NTFS to FAT32 Conversion window

When completed, a success message will be displayed by the NTFS to FAT32 tool.

How to convert NTFS to FAT32 with built-in Windows tools

This process will completely wipe the data stored on the drive being converted from NTFS to FAT32. It is, however, the preferred conversion method if you are able to temporarily move your data to another device as it does not require third-party tools and is less likely to result in data loss if the process is interrupted (as you can just re-start the copy process).

Managing file storage and avoiding data loss in enterprise environments

Safely converting from NTFS to FAT32 comes with risks. It’s best to assess your compatibility requirements before you begin using a storage device so that it can be correctly configured for use with both Windows 10 and Windows 11, as well as older devices.

Relying on external drives for critical data in business and enterprise environments presents additional risks: portable USB devices can be lost, damaged, or stolen and must be physically moved if files need to be transferred or shared. Setting up network shares that are centrally managed, backed up, and accessible over local networks and secure VPNs provides convenient and reliable storage for core business data.

NinjaOne helps you both monitor and manage the back-up process and secure the endpoint devices used to access data, ensuring its ongoing integrity and security.

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