How to remove gpt protection from hard drive. Converting a GPT partition to MBR and how to fix the GPT format error when installing Windows

In the previous article, we learned how to determine GPT or MBR partitioning hard drive used in your computer. Today it’s time to figure out how to convert a GPT disk to MBR and vice versa, without losing data.

When converting GPT to MBR and vice versa, the data on the disk will be destroyed. So before doing such a conversion, do backup copy all data on the disk. The conversion process clears the disk of all data, including old information about the partition table, then converts to the new disk partition standard and re-partitions the disk.

Technically, this sequence of actions is the only one when converting partition tables. It is worth noting that some third-party developers of disk partition management programs have now already learned how to convert partition table standards from MBR to GPT and back without data loss. But these programs are not officially supported by Microsoft. Therefore, listen to our advice - before using third-party programs, make a backup copy of your data, just in case.

In any case, we recommend making a backup copy before converting, then converting with data loss, and then copying necessary information back to disk. Of course, this will take more time, but this is the official tactic and guarantees the safety of the data and the absence of problems with the partition table.

Method one: Convert GPT to MBR using Disk Management utility

Warning: Save all your data before proceeding. This utility will erase everything on the disk you are converting!

Once you have converted a GPT partition to MBR or vice versa, you can start creating partitions on the disk. Just right-click on the unallocated area of ​​the disk in the graphic window and create one or more partitions on the disk through the context menu. After which, you can write the previously copied data to one of the partitions.

Method two: Convert using the Diskpart console command

In order to convert a GPT disk to MBR or vice versa, you can use the regular console command “diskpart” entered in the command line window. This method may be useful to you when the disk is locked for some reason or is not available for conversion through the graphical window of the Disk Management utility.

Let us remind you once again that before converting a disk, you should make a backup copy of all data. After all, during the conversion process, all data on the disk will be lost!

1. First, open a command window CMD lines with administrator rights. How to do this, read our article about what is used in your computer?
2. Next, in the Command Prompt window, run two commands in sequence:
3. After that, a list of computer disks will open in the command line window. Remember the number of the disk that needs to be converted. In order to correctly identify the drive, pay attention to its capacity in the “Size” column.
4. Now type new commands, sequentially, one after another. To perform each of them, press “Enter” on the keyboard. Replace the “#” symbol with the number of the disk you want to convert:

   Note that it is the “clean” command that deletes all data on the disk, including partition table information. Which means that when selecting a disk using the “select disk #” command, you should not make a mistake in its serial number!

5. Now you can proceed directly to converting a GPT partition to MBR or MBR to GPT, depending on what exactly you need.

   To convert from MBR to GPT type:

   To convert from GPT to MBR type:

At this point, disk conversion can be considered complete and you can move on to using the more convenient Disk Management utility to create partitions. Advanced users can use additional commands diskpart for “splitting” the disk into partitions. If necessary, transfer the previously copied data to one of the created partitions.

And finally, I would like to remind you that the procedure GPT conversions disk to MBR without erasing data is quite dangerous. Next time we will test the capabilities of third-party programs that can do this, and we will talk about this in a separate article, but for now we recommend using official ways conversions with removal and backup data.

By default, Windows almost always uses the MBR hard drive data structure.

If you have new equipment with UEFI support, it may be necessary to convert (convert) the MBR disk structure to GPT.

How to do this? If you want to install Windows on a UEFI-based computer, your disk must be based on a GPT structure.

Otherwise, the installation will display a message that the system cannot be installed.

You may also need to convert a disk from MBR to GPT for other solutions - this can be done without losing data.

For example, if your system is installed on GPT, but also has additional disks MBR.

Then an error may occur when booting from UEFI with devices.

Method #1 – Convert MBR disk to GPT without losing data

Conversion between structures can be done using built-ins Windows utilities, but then you will lose all your data.

However, there is a simple free tool for management that can perform this operation without damaging your data - Aomei Partition Assistant Home Edition.

Launch the program - right-click on the main header (for example, Disk 1), and then from the drop-down list select “Convert GPT disk...”.

After this, the conversion task will appear and will be added to the list on the left.

Click on the "Apply" button to start the process. Now the program will convert partitions from MBR to GPT without losing data.

The advantages of this conversion: all partitions remain intact and do not lose data.

Cons: You can only convert additional drives that are in your computer.

If you only have one and want to convert it, you must remove it and mount it as a second drive on another computer.

Method number 2 - converting from MBR to GPT during the installation of the Windows system

If, when you try to install Windows, the system displays a message that it can only be installed on a GPT disk, you can convert it directly in the installer.

Only then will you lose all your data, although you need to format at least one partition in all cases.

Launch the partitioning utility by entering the command “Diskpart” and confirm by pressing “Enter”.

In the next step, enter the command “List Disk”, and then confirm with Enter. After this, a list of disks installed on the computer will be displayed - each of which is identified on the left side (0, 1, 2, 3 ...).

You must select the one you want to convert. Enter the command “Select Disk #”, where # is the disk number. Press Enter.

Now that the drive is selected, you must clean it up. Enter the command “Clean” and confirm your selection by pressing Enter.

Then enter the last command “Convert GPT” and then press Enter.

The drive will be formatted and converted to GPT. Now you can close the window and refresh the list. The error message will no longer be displayed and everything will work fine.

Cons: loss of all data. Converting with this method removes all data and partitions. Good luck.

Convert a GPT partition table to the old MBR format for various reasons. For example, due to a common error, installing windows on this disk impossible.
No matter why you need this conversion, we'll tell you how to do it available methods. Conversion occurs using standard system tools (this can also be done during its installation) or specialized ones using software methods. So, we will tell you how to convert the new format standard used to host partition tables to the old one, if such a need arises. We will show you several conversion methods, and you are free to choose the most optimal one for yourself. At the end of the article there is a video that clearly shows how you can convert a disk to MBR format without losing data on it.

Converting to MBR when installing Windows via command line

Important information! When converting formats, all information from the hard drive will be erased.

The old GPT format to the new one, MBR, can be changed using standard means- command line. To convert, follow these six steps:

Step 1 When you install the operating system and select partitions (not necessarily in this location), open the command line with the key combination: Shift + F10. If the operating system is already installed, the command line can be launched as an administrator.

Step 2 Execute two commands: first - diskpart, second - list disk. These commands will show everything physical disks that are connected to this computer.

Step 3 Run the command select disk N(instead of N, enter the number of the disk being converted).

Action 4This action can be performed in two ways. Method 1: Run the command clean(all data on the disk will be completely deleted, including volumes). The second method is that partitions can be deleted not entirely, but separately. This method takes time. If you have nowhere to rush, run the following commands one by one: detail disk, select volume, delete volume.

Action 5Command convert mbr will start the format conversion.

Step 6To exit Diskpart, enter Exit. When the command line closes, the installation of the operating system will continue, but without error notifications. And to create partitions, select “Disk Settings”.

Convert GPT to MBR disk using Windows Disk Management

To convert using this method (with the OS running), we will use a disk management program. It can be opened using the command line by running diskmgmt.msc

Programs for converting between GPT and MBR, including without data loss

Nowadays, most laptops and computers are sold with the Windows 8 operating system pre-installed. But not all users like it. Many people uninstall the new operating system and install the familiar Windows 7 instead.

However, during the installation process, the following message appears: “Windows cannot be installed on this drive. The selected disk has a GPT partition style."

The thing is that new computers have hard drives with a GPT partition table, instead of the usual MBR. This is a new standard developed by Intel, which is part of the UEFI BIOS. Unlike the MBR table, which supported drives with a capacity of no more than 2 TB, the GPT partition table supports hard drives with a much larger capacity.

But, despite all the advantages, sometimes you need to install an operating system on a disk with an MBR partition table. Let's look at how you can convert your hard drive from GPT to MBR.

During Windows installation

Delete all partitions

ATTENTION!!! All information stored on the hard drive will be deleted.

During installation of the operating system, in the window where you need to select the partition to install, click on the button "Disk Setup". Then delete everything and create them again. If the volume of your hard drive is less than 2.2 TB, then new disk will be created with an MBR partition table.

Converting via the command line

This method also implies complete removal data from all sections. That is, if you had partitions C:, D:, E:, then the information will be deleted not only from C: on which the system was installed, but also from D: and E:.

In the window where you need to select a partition to install the operating system, press Shift+F10.

A command prompt window will open. We will convert GPT to MBR using special utility, built into Windows. Enter the command diskpart and press “Enter”.

The list disk command will open a list from which you can select the one you need. Please note that if the disk has a GPT partition table, it will have a “*” next to it.

The select disk 0 command will allow you to select required disk. Here, instead of “0”, there should be the number of your hard drive, which was determined by the previous command - it can be 0, 1, or 2, depending on how many of them are installed on the computer.

The clean command will completely clear it - remove all partitions and information from them.

The convert mbr command converts hard drive to MBR.

Type exit once to exit the DiskPart console utility, and exit again to close the command prompt.

Now on the hard MBR partition table, you can continue installing the operating system.

Conversion without data loss

If you do not want to lose the information that is on the hard drive, but convert it to MBR as needed, then we will use the Paragon program Hard Disk Manager. You can download it from the official website. The only thing is that this program is paid. Of course, there is a Demo version, but the GPT to MBR converter is not active in it. Therefore, you only need to install the full version.

Run the program on your computer using a Live CD or bootable flash drive. Then select with the mouse the hard one that needs to be converted. Here you can see what partition table is on it.

If such a list does not open for you, find the item in the program window "List of disks and partitions" and click on the small black arrow opposite it.

Right-click on the one you want and select "Convert basic GPT to the base MBR disk".

In the next window, click on the button "Convert".

To apply the changes, click on green tick in the upper left corner.

A confirmation window will pop up, click “Yes”.

After the process is completed, click “Close”.

Now the name in the list will change - "Basic MBR hard drive".

We open the disk through Explorer and see that all the files remain in place.

Conversion on a computer with two hard drives

Let's consider this option. The computer has two hard drives, divided into partitions. Your main OS is on the first, you want to install on the second new system. In this case, you can convert GPT to MBR using Windows itself, or using Paragon Hard Disk Manager.

With information removed

Let's consider the first option. In this case, information from the selected hard drive will be deleted. To do this we go to "Disk Management": press the Win+R combination and in the “Open” field type diskmgmt.msc, click “OK”.

The window we need will open. I only have one hard drive installed. You will have “Disk 0” and “Disk 1”. Select the one on which you are going to install the new OS. Now right-click on any section and select from context menu item "Delete volume". Repeat this for all others on this hard drive.

Now right-click on the hardest one and select "Convert to MBR disk"(You will have it).

After this, the partition table will be MBR. You can split the disk into the necessary partitions.

With preservation of information

The second option is to use the Paragon Hard Disk Manager program. Run it on your computer in a working operating system. All information will be saved. Then select the hard drive that needs to be converted, the main thing is not the one on which the working OS is installed, and repeat all the steps with the program that were described in the paragraph above.

As you can see, there are various ways to convert a disk with a GPT partition table to MBR. You can convert the disk to MBR when installing the operating system, or use the Paragon Hard Disk Manager program and save all the data.

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After Windows release 7 saw the light new type hard sections disk, as a result of which users must perform a number of additional actions when reinstalling the operating system, namely, converting GPT to MBR, which must be performed precisely when Windows installation 7. Interesting fact, that you can also encounter the need for conversion by performing other actions with the OS, but most often this happens during installation. We are going to walk you through the process of moving from GPT to MBR step by step using the most well-known methods and list the most suitable tools for this.

The average user may understand that he needs to change the disk conversion during installation Windows newer 7 versions. Often the problem lies in the lack of UEFI on the computer (instead there is an outdated BIOS), which is necessary for new version OS. The user encounters a problem when going to the disk partitioning screen, encountering a message that interferes with the further process. The message warns that a GPT disk is being used instead of the required MBR. In this situation, all that is available to you is the “OK” button and the menu for interacting with existing disks. The “Next” button will not be available to you in this situation. The opposite situation may also happen, in which the installation will require you not to use GPT, but MBR. Be that as it may, we will tell you about the process of changing the type of hard drive, and in the future, any of you will be able to change it yourself Windows drives 7 in both directions, both from GPT to MBR and to reverse side.

Conversion during Windows installation via command line

Command line– an integrated tool of any Windows that can organize local disks and change GPT to MBR. It is capable of converting GPT to MBR and vice versa, provided that the disk to be converted is not partitioned.

The usage scheme is as follows:

1. Click “Start” > enter “Command Prompt” and run it with administrator privileges;
2. Enter “diskpart” and press “Enter”;
3. Enter “list disk” and press “Enter”;
4. Type “select disk N” and press “Enter”. Instead of “N” you must put the number of the disk to be changed (for example, “Disk 0”);
5. Enter “clean” and press “Enter” to delete partitions or volumes on the disk that was selected;
6. Enter “convert mbr” and press “Enter”, after which the change from GPT to MBR will be completed.

The method is quite controversial because it entails deleting all information on the media. That is why, before the conversion procedure, we strongly recommend that you reserve the information you need at removable media, and then restore it.

Convert using Windows Disk Management

Disk Management is a tool integrated into Windows 10 that allows you to make changes (create, delete, increase, shrink) partitions, convert them to GPT or MBR.

Here's how to use it:

Programs for conversion without data loss

There are also a number of utilities that allow you to convert disks without losing data. To use them, you do not need to delete all partitions. But it is worth saying that the possibility that the data will be erased is still present and you should be prepared for this, since this possibility is present during all operations with a partition and/or disk. In this regard, we highly recommend that you back up the necessary data on removable media before using any of the programs.
So, if you have made all the necessary preparations, then let's look at three programs that are most suitable for manipulating disks.

AOMEI Partition Assistant Standard Edition

A wonderful and freely distributed utility that allows you to manipulate media. With its help, you can make changes in a couple of clicks file system, partition sizes, cloning, etc. And most importantly, most operations are performed while saving your data (this is the main advantage over standard utilities systems).

Unfortunately, just recently the opportunity MBR conversion in GPT, starting from version 7, the utility became paid (it was free in version 6.6, so you can install it as an option).

There is no need to dwell on how to download and install the program; everything is standard here. Having launched the utility, in its start window you will see information about which of your partitions are converted to GPT and which to MBR (see picture).

For example, let's look at MBR conversion in GPT.

Notes!

If necessary, convert the system drive (that is, the drive on which Windows was installed and from which you are present moment and work) - in the usual way You won't be able to achieve this. Under these circumstances you need:

EaseUS free Partition Master

Another program for converting MBR to GPT is EaseUS free Partition Master. The program, just like the previous one, will save all your data, it is a little easier to learn for users and regularly receives updates from the publisher.

If you decide to opt for this utility, then here is the procedure for completing the conversion using it:

Paragon Hard Disk Manager

Paragon Hard Disk Manager operates exclusively on the operating system itself, therefore, you should not remove the OS by simply formatting it. system partition. Convert the disk first, and then you can perform the necessary actions.
The utility is paid, but is present trial version, which is basically enough for you. To download the program, simply register on the official website, the download link will be sent to your email. All that remains is to download and install it.

1. After launching the application, in the dialog box, select the GPT disk to be edited with one click, and at the top of the window click “ Hard drive" In the contextual one - “Convert to basic MBR disk”, confirm the performed actions by clicking on the green checkmark.
2. In the window that appears, click “Convert”.
3. At the end of the process of transition from GPT to MBR, Paragon will display the “All operations completed” window.
4. After that, close the program and continue to use your PC.

Video: converting GPT disk to MBR

So which is better GPT or MBR? The answer to this question cannot be known without taking into account the requirements that apply to each technology in specific case. MBR and GPT perform the same function - storing information about the disk structure and ensuring the operating system boots. In many ways, these technologies are similar, but there are also differences between them. On at the moment MBR is supported by almost everyone operating systems however, GPT has many advanced features. In addition, in some cases it is impossible for the user to do without GPT installations, for example, when using disks larger than 2 TB.
If you have decided which technology you will use and realized that you need conversion, then here is a video that shows this entire process without data loss using the Paragon Hard Disk Manager program.

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