Changing the UUID (Universally Unique Identifier) on a Windows 10 machine isn’t something you do every day, but it can be essential for certain tasks. This article will guide you step-by-step on how to do it, ensuring your system remains functional throughout the process. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to do and why it’s needed.
How to Change UUID Windows 10
Changing the UUID in Windows 10 is a straightforward process that involves using a few tools built into the operating system. The steps below will walk you through the process to help ensure it’s done correctly without causing any issues.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
First, you’ll need to open the Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
To do this, right-click the Start button and choose "Command Prompt (Admin)" or "Windows PowerShell (Admin)."
Step 2: Use Diskpart Utility
Type diskpart in the Command Prompt and hit Enter to launch the Diskpart utility.
Diskpart is a powerful command-line tool used for disk management. Running it with administrative privileges grants you the necessary permissions to make system-level changes.
Step 3: List All Disks
Once in Diskpart, type list disk and press Enter.
This command will display all the disks connected to your computer, helping you identify the one whose UUID you want to change.
Step 4: Select the Disk
Type select disk X where X is the number of the disk you want to modify and press Enter.
Selecting the correct disk is crucial. Take your time to ensure you choose the right one to avoid any unintentional data loss.
Step 5: List All Partitions
Type list partition and press Enter to see all the partitions on the selected disk.
Knowing the partitions helps you better understand the structure of the disk and ensures you’re working with the correct partition.
Step 6: Select the Partition
Type select partition Y where Y is the number of the partition you want to modify and press Enter.
Ensure you pick the right partition, especially if the disk has multiple partitions. This step is critical for the next command to work correctly.
Step 7: Assign a New UUID
Type uniqueid disk id=NEW_UUID and press Enter, replacing "NEW_UUID" with the desired UUID.
The new UUID should be unique and formatted correctly. This ensures no conflicts arise with other systems or partitions.
After completing these steps, your disk’s UUID will have changed. You can verify this by typing detail disk in Diskpart.
Tips for Changing UUID Windows 10
- Always back up your data before making any changes to disk identifiers.
- Double-check the disk and partition numbers to avoid mistakes.
- Use a UUID generator tool to create a valid and unique UUID.
- Run Command Prompt as an administrator to ensure you have the necessary permissions.
- Be aware that changing the UUID can impact software licensing and other system-dependent functionalities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I need to change the UUID?
Changing the UUID can be necessary for disk cloning, resolving conflicts, or setting up specific software environments.
Can changing the UUID cause data loss?
No, changing the UUID itself does not cause data loss, but incorrect steps can, so proceed with caution.
Is there any risk to my system?
Minimal risk if you follow the steps correctly, but always back up your data as a precaution.
Can I change the UUID on an external drive?
Yes, you can use the same steps to change the UUID on external drives as well.
Do I need admin rights to change the UUID?
Yes, administrative privileges are required to use the Diskpart utility effectively.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator
- Use Diskpart Utility
- List All Disks
- Select the Disk
- List All Partitions
- Select the Partition
- Assign a New UUID
Conclusion
Changing the UUID on a Windows 10 machine is a manageable task if you follow the steps outlined. This process can be necessary for various reasons, from resolving system conflicts to preparing disks for specific uses. Always ensure you have a backup of your data and double-check each step to mitigate any risks.
If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with others. For more detailed tutorials on Windows 10, feel free to explore the related articles on our website. Happy computing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.