How do I merge an existing NTFS partition

[wr213]

I have windows XP, my existing hard drive is a 10GB with a 2GB "C" partition and an 8GB "D". The "C" partition is too small even though I have installed ALL the programs to run on the "D" drive. I want to merge the whole drive as one "C" drive without losing any data. Can this be done? Do I need partition magic or any other software for that? The drive was given to me with those partitions and I am not sure why there is only 26MB left when EVERYTHING is installed on the D drive. Any help will be inmensely appreciated.

 

[SESaskDFC]

Howdy:

You will need Partition Magic or some other partitioning program such as Ranish.

Good luck,
Murray

 

[wolluf]

As Murray says - Partition Magic or similar (but do back up data you can't afford to lose before doing the merge. PM is very good, but can still run into problems. I wouldn't advice using Ranish unless you're into technical detail).

As to why C: drive full - have you got system restore enabled? where is you pagefile? do you regularly clear down temp & internet temp files (or better still, move them to 8GB partition). Have you considered buying a second hard drive? (you could 'clone' current C: to it - drive manufacturer's have utilities for this - and keep your setup intact).

 

[Freestone]

Then there's the fact that all your programs, which currently reside on D:, would then be on C:, and the mess that's going to create with shortcuts, registry entries, etc. still pointing at D:.

I second wolluf's suggestion of an additional drive.