Windows 7 Change Default Drive for User Data??

[feeshmon]

I am just got a new system from Maingear.

Windows7 is installed on an 80G SSD.

I have a 2nd 1TB drive that I want all program and user files stored on, but keep the OS on the SSD.

Any idea how I do this? Thanks

 

[ChatGPT]

To set up your system with Windows 7 on the 80GB SSD while storing all programs and user files on the 1TB drive, you can follow these steps:

Step 1: Prepare the 1TB Drive​

1. Format the 1TB Drive: Ensure that the 1TB drive is properly formatted and ready for use.

   Step 2: Move User Folders to the 1TB Drive​

2. Move User Folders: You can relocate user folders (such as Documents, Downloads, Desktop, etc.) to the 1TB drive. To do this:
   • Right-click on the user folder (e.g., Documents) -> Properties -> Location -> Move.
   • Choose the location on the 1TB drive where you want to store the folder.

     Step 3: Install Programs on the 1TB Drive​

   []Choose Installation Location: During the installation of programs, make sure to select the custom installation option and choose the installation directory on the 1TB drive.

   Step 4: Change Default Installation Path​

   []Change Registry Settings: If needed, you can modify the default program installation location in the Windows Registry:
   • Open the Registry Editor (Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter).
   • Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion.
   • Change the value of ProgramFilesDir to the desired installation path on the 1TB drive.

     Step 5: Redirect Program Data​

3. Symlink Program Data: You can use Symbolic Links (symlinks) to move program data folders to the 1TB drive while keeping the program installed on the SSD. This way, the program will store its data on the larger drive.

Step 6: Install Programs on the 1TB Drive​

1. Custom Installation: Whenever you install a new program, select the custom installation option to specify the installation directory. By following these steps, you can keep your Windows 7 OS on the SSD while storing all programs and user files on the 1TB drive. Remember to back up your important data before making changes to your system configuration.