New Build- Windows Setup

[millertime214]

Hi everybody,

I just built a PC for my grandparents and I was wondering about how to setup Windows. I created a Windows partition and a larger partition for storage. I was wondering if there was anyway to make the larger partition the main partition when installing new programs, etc. I made the Windows drive D: and the larger one C: but that still doesn't seem to work. I just don't want my grandparents to have to worry about changing the drive letter everytime they go to install something new. I appreciate your help!

[Kareeser]

It is usually smarter to have programs installed on the System partition anyway. When you reformat a computer and wipe the system drive, the programs will fail to operate because they are not longer tied to the OS.

I, for example, format my computer and give 20 GB to the System drive, which is often enough for both Windows and all the programs I need to install. The rest contains "My Documents", and whatever I'd like to keep in my system drive.

If you really want to change the default installation path, you will have to edit a registry value.

[blue60007]

What kind of programs will your grandparents be running? like Kareeser said, I like to install programs in the default Program Files - unless it's a huge game that takes up several gigs of space, then it goes on the storage drive.

I didn't even know you could change the default installation path...I'm sure you could google for it and find the registry key (just exercise caution when messing with the registry).

[glc]

I never partition a drive for casual users. Keep it simple. Make it all one big partition.

[Staren]

Originally Posted by glc I never partition a drive for casual users. Keep it simple. Make it all one big partition.

I agree with glc. The reason more advanced users set up multiple partitions is because it makes day to day use easier for someone who knows their way around. If the person using the system every day is a basic user, I'd stick to the KISS Philosophy (Keep It Simple Stupid). It would mean doing a back-up of their files before a re-format, but someone should be doing that anyway.

[jer888]

yeah if your grandparents are having you build their computer i dont think their going to know the diffrence anyways. nothing bad twoards your grandparents im just assuming they most likely wont know and/or care if they are just doing simple things

[millertime214]

Thanks for all your help guys. I just reinstalled Windows on one partition. I had just started with it anyway, so it wasn't a big deal at all. Again, thanks everyone.