Partition extension query

TomStrong · 05 Jan 2018

Hello, I have a new HP laptop with a 256GB SSD drive split into C and D where D (13.9GB) has the manufacturer provided recovery. I've now got a separate recovery disk from HP and would like to delete D and extend C.
When I try to do that using Windows' own Disk Management tool, the extend option is greyed out. I believe this might be because there isn't unallocated space to the right of C. There's an odd 980MB section between C and D. Here's what it looks like https://imgur.com/a/dHL9z
Could someone please point me to a step-by-step guide or provide instructions on what I should do?

Partition extension query-diskmanagement.jpg

dalchina · 05 Jan 2018

Hi, best use a tool like Minitool Partition Wizard.
The small Recovery partition (which should not have a drive letter allocated) is part of the set of Windows partitions (4 for an EFI installation). If you delete that, Windows will boot, but you will lose automated repair and Advanced startup options.

The change to C: needs to be done on reboot, before Windows is loaded. Minitool Partition Wizard will set that task up for you.

You could also do this by using a boot disk such as Kyhi's, available from the top of the Software and Apps section here. It includes a copy of a couple of partition managers including that one.

Considering partitioning- if your PC has a second disk, put your data on that - else create D: as a suitably sized partition on that disk, and use that for data.

Good practice is to keep data away from the OS. MS's default is to mash everything together, which creates problems if you need to clean install.

Recommended- create a disk image before making changes. We strongly recommend the routine use of disk imaging e.g. Macrium Reflect (free) + external storage.

TomStrong · 05 Jan 2018

Thanks dalchina. Unfortunately I saw Minitool recommended elsewhere and went ahead with it before I saw your reply.

Minitool showed the 980MB partition to be Windows RE tools so I didn't want to mess with it. I just moved it to the extreme right, deleted D drive and then extended the C drive. It looks like this now Imgur: The magic of the Internet

Partition extension query-diskmanagement2.jpg

Data merge concerns aside (this will be my secondary laptop and I won't really save anything important on it), have I done it right or jeopardised anything in any way? Will the automated repair and Advanced startup options still work?

Word Man · 05 Jan 2018

High, TomStrong. If you execute "reagentc /info" from an elevated (admin) command prompt, you should get an indication confirming whether or not your Recovery Partition still has enabled WinRE.

TomStrong · 12 Jan 2018

Hi Wordman, this is what I get when I run it from Powershell. Have I broken it? If so, how do I fix it?

Partition extension query-clipboard02.jpg

dalchina · 12 Jan 2018

You can try
reagentc /enable
and see if that helps.. but it looks as if you need to identify and specify the Recovery partition's location

Try this- although it's not exactly intuitive from the above:

From an admin command prompt:
reagentc /disable

then
reagentc /enable

More:
Windows RE status couldnt be enabled - Microsoft Community

Word Man · 12 Jan 2018

Also, @TomStrong, in addition to following dalchina's good advice, I would reboot for good measure and before trying "reagentc /info" again (or if not enabled right away). The reason I say is I did an /enable last week and it didn't take, but after a reboot it was squared away.

If no luck, let us know.