how to move games to another drive windows 11
Moving games to another drive in Windows 11 can free up space and help your system run smoother. To do this, you’ll need to access the settings, choose the game you want to move, and select a new storage location. The process is straightforward and doesn’t require any technical knowledge. Follow the steps below to get it done.
How to Move Games to Another Drive in Windows 11
This section will guide you through moving your games from one drive to another in Windows 11. The steps are simple and ensure your games are relocated without any fuss.
Step 1: Open Settings
To begin, click on the Start menu and select "Settings."
Opening the Settings app is your gateway to changing various system preferences, including where your games are stored. If you’re unsure where the Start menu is, it’s the Windows icon at the bottom-left of your screen.
Step 2: Go to Apps
Navigate to "Apps" in the Settings menu.
The "Apps" section is where all your installed applications are listed. This is where you can manage your apps, including moving them to a different drive.
Step 3: Select Apps & Features
Under "Apps," click on "Apps & features."
This will bring up a list of all the applications installed on your computer. It’s like a library of what’s on your PC, organized for easy access.
Step 4: Choose the Game
Find the game you want to move in the list and click on it.
You might need to scroll down to find your game. Once you locate it, a small menu with options will appear. This menu is key to changing the location of the game.
Step 5: Click Move
Click the "Move" button that appears.
When you click "Move," a prompt will ask you to choose the destination drive. This is where you decide the game’s new home.
Step 6: Select the New Drive
Choose the new drive from the dropdown menu and click "Move" again.
Your game will now start moving to the selected drive. Depending on the size of the game, this might take a few minutes, so be patient.
After completing these steps, your game will be moved to the new drive, freeing up space on your original drive and helping your PC run better.
Tips for Moving Games to Another Drive in Windows 11
Here are some additional tips to make the process even smoother:
- Make sure the new drive has enough space to accommodate the game.
- Check the read/write speed of the new drive; faster drives improve game performance.
- Regularly check for game updates before moving them to avoid interruptions.
- Consider using an external SSD for better portability and speed.
- Backup your save files just in case something goes wrong during the transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I move any game to another drive?
Most games can be moved using the steps outlined, but some older games might not support this feature. Always check the game’s support documentation.
What should I do if the “Move” button is greyed out?
If the "Move" button is greyed out, it means the game doesn’t support being moved or there’s an issue with the installation. Try reinstalling the game on the new drive directly.
Do I need to reinstall the game after moving it?
No, you don’t need to reinstall the game. Moving the game transfers all necessary files to the new location.
Will my game progress be saved?
Yes, your game progress and settings should remain intact. However, it’s always a good idea to backup your save files.
Can I move multiple games at once?
You need to move games one at a time. There isn’t an option to batch move multiple games in Windows 11’s settings.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Go to Apps.
- Select Apps & Features.
- Choose the Game.
- Click Move.
- Select the New Drive.
Conclusion
Moving games to another drive in Windows 11 is a simple yet effective way to manage your storage space better. By following the steps above, you free up your primary drive, making your system run more efficiently. Plus, it’s a great way to organize your games if you have multiple drives.
Remember, regularly managing your storage and staying aware of where your data resides can prolong the life of your hardware and improve your overall gaming experience. If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with friends who might also be struggling with storage issues. Happy gaming!
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.