How to reclaim free disk space?

tech.addict

tech.addict

Level G
I installed Linux on a 20GB partition on my laptop.

Recently I removed the the linux - and deleted the partition. Now the 20GB space is showing up as "unallocated disk space" in windows disk management. The C: partition was shrinked and this 20 GB partition was created.

When I'm trying to extend the volume (C: or D:) - that option is greyed out. Also, when I'm trying to create a new simple volume using the unallocated 20GB space - my system is giving me "insufficient disk space to carry out the operation" message :huh:.

Please tell me what to do?
 
You will need a good partition manager like Easeus Partition manager (freeware) or better still Partition Magic (commercial).

Partition Magic had some issues with Vista, but latest version has taken care of that.

Also you need to be aware, that in Windows you can have a max. of 4 primary partition per disk. Usually people go for 3 primary partitions and one logical partition. Then within that logical partition the disk volumes are created.

If partition and the unallocated diskspace are not continuous, then you can't extend a partition. Sml. you can't extend a primary partition in to a logical partition and vice versa.
 
Use Parted Magic / GParted LiveUSB - easier-to-use, free, open-source and better than most Partition managers out there.

Also, since you're booting from USB and running off the RAM, it provides reliable partitioning of the HDD. Yes, you can extend your C: just like you wanted in the GParted GUI.
 
Will try with some other partitioning tool in the evening and also will post the screenshots.

________Evening update_________

Operation completed successfully with Partition Wizard Home edition. Easeus was giving some error messages.

Thanks guys for the help.
 
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