How to merge hard disk partitions？

​1. Backup Your Data

Before you begin the partition merging process, it’s crucial to back up all the data on the partitions you plan to modify. You can use external hard drives, cloud storage services, or other backup methods. Data loss can occur during the partitioning process due to various reasons such as power outages, software glitches, or incorrect operations.

2. Check the Disk Management Utility (for Windows)

Access Disk Management: In Windows, you can access the Disk Management utility by right – clicking on the “This PC” or “My Computer” icon and selecting “Manage.” Then, in the Computer Management window, click on “Disk Management” in the left – panel.

Understand the Partition Layout: Here, you’ll see a graphical representation of your hard drives and their partitions. Note the file system type (such as NTFS, FAT32) of each partition, the size, and the available free space.

3. Delete the Partition You Want to Merge (in Some Cases)

If you have an unallocated space next to a partition and you want to merge them, you may not need to delete a partition. But if you have two adjacent partitions with data that you want to combine, you’ll usually need to delete one of the partitions first.

Warning: Deleting a partition will erase all data on that partition. Make sure you have a backup. To delete a partition in Disk Management, right – click on the partition you want to delete and select “Delete Volume.”

4. Extend the Partition

Using Unallocated Space: If you have just deleted a partition, you now have unallocated space. To merge this unallocated space with an adjacent partition, right – click on the partition you want to expand and select “Extend Volume.”

Follow the Wizard: A wizard will open. Click “Next” in the “Extend Volume Wizard.” You’ll be asked to specify the amount of space you want to add to the partition. By default, it will usually select all the available unallocated space. Click “Next” and then “Finish” to complete the process.

5. Third Party Partition Management Tools (Alternative for Windows)

Panda Assistant is an intuitive and powerful data recovery software designed to help users recover lost or deleted files from various storage devices. Whether it’s a hard drive, SSD, USB flash drive, memory card, or even a damaged or corrupted disk, Panda Assistant offers an easy-to-use interface that can help retrieve files efficiently. Known for its user-friendly approach, it eliminates the need for technical expertise while offering a robust set of features for both novice and advanced users.

Key Features of Panda Assistant

Multi-Device Recovery: Panda Assistant supports recovery from a wide range of storage devices, including external and internal hard drives, flash drives, memory cards, and even smartphones. This flexibility makes it ideal for individuals and businesses alike, who need to recover data from multiple types of devices.

File Type Support: Panda Assistant is compatible with numerous file types, including documents, images, videos, emails, and other commonly used formats. Whether it’s an accidental deletion or a system crash, the software allows users to recover a variety of lost files in just a few simple steps.

Deep Scan and Quick Scan Modes: The software offers both a Quick Scan for recovering recently deleted files and a Deep Scan mode for situations where data loss is more severe or when files are hidden due to system corruption. The Deep Scan option ensures a thorough search of your storage device for files that are difficult to retrieve, maximizing the chances of recovery.

Advanced Preview Feature: Before you proceed with the actual recovery, Panda Assistant allows you to preview recoverable files. This is an important feature, as it enables users to confirm that the files they intend to recover are indeed the correct ones, preventing the recovery of unnecessary or unwanted data.

Safe and Secure: Panda Assistant is designed with data safety in mind. During the recovery process, it does not overwrite any existing data on the storage device, ensuring the integrity of any remaining files. This careful approach minimizes the risk of data loss during the recovery operation.

Easy-to-Use Interface: One of Panda Assistant’s standout features is its simplicity. The interface is clean, intuitive, and designed for users at all levels of technical expertise. Even those who are not familiar with data recovery tools will find it easy to navigate and use.

Cross-Platform Compatibility: Panda Assistant works across various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, ensuring that users can recover their data regardless of the platform they are using. This cross-platform compatibility makes it versatile and useful for a wide range of users.

6. For Mac Users

Using Disk Utility: Mac comes with a built – in Disk Utility. You can access it by going to “Applications” > “Utilities” > “Disk Utility.”

Check the Partition Layout: In Disk Utility, you’ll see the list of your hard drives and partitions. Make sure you know which partitions you want to work with.

Erase and Merge: If you have two partitions on the same physical drive and want to merge them, you may need to erase one of the partitions first. Then, you can select the remaining partition and use the “Resize” option to expand it to cover the space of the erased partition. However, this will erase all data on the partition you are resizing, so back up your data first.

It’s important to note that any changes to your hard disk partitions carry some risks, such as data loss or system instability if not done correctly. If you’re not confident in performing these operations yourself, it may be advisable to consult a professional or an experienced technician.