MBR vs GPT: Which Partition Structure is Better for Your Data Storage?

How to Convert MBR to GPT or Vice Versa

Changing the partition structure from MBR to GPT or vice versa can be done by several methods. However, it is important to remember that this process will erase all data on the disk. Therefore, make sure you have backed up your important data before proceeding.

Method 1: Using Disk Management (Windows)

Here are the steps to convert MBR to GPT using Windows Disk Management:

1. Open Disk Management. Right-click on the Start Menu and select Disk Management.
2. Select the disk you want to change, Right-click on the disk (not the partition) at the bottom of the Disk Management window.
3. If the current disk is using MBR, select Convert to GPT Disk.  And if the current disk is using GPT, select Convert to MBR Disk.
4. Follow the prompts.

Method 2: Using Command Prompt (CMD) with Diskpart

You can also use the Command Prompt with the Diskpart tool to change the partition structure. Here are the steps:

Converting MBR to GPT:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator. Find CMD in the Start Menu, right-click, and select Run as Administrator.
2. Run the following command:

diskpart
list disk
select disk [disk_number]
clean
convert gpt
exit

Converting GPT to MBR:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Run the following command:

diskpart
list disk
select disk [disk_number]
clean
convert mbr
exit

Important Notes:

– Make sure you have backed up all important data before converting.

– The clean process will erase all partitions and data on the disk, so make sure you select the correct disk.

– If you’re using a Windows operating system, make sure that the converted disk isn’t the system disk you’re booting from.