Data Drive

Performance and Wear Considerations

Modern systems often pair a fast SSD with a larger HDD.
Using the SSD as the OS and application drive while assigning the HDD as a data drive balances speed and capacity.

In addition, this pattern:

• Reduces random I/O contention between system tasks and large media files

• Keeps heavy write workloads (like downloads and raw footage) on cheaper disks

• Simplifies future SSD upgrades, because you only clone the system drive

Consequently, the machine stays responsive while still offering plenty of room for user data.

Planning a Data Drive Layout

Before you move folders, you should design a basic layout that matches your hardware and workload.

Choosing SSD vs. HDD for a Data Drive

For active projects, virtual machines, and databases, an SSD data drive works best.
It provides low latency and strong random I/O performance.

For archives, backup copies, and media libraries, an HDD remains cost-effective.
You gain terabytes of capacity at a lower price per gigabyte, which suits long-term retention.

A mixed approach is common: SSD for “hot” data and HDD for “warm” and “cold” data.

Partition vs. Separate Physical Disk

You can simulate a data drive by creating a separate partition on one physical disk.
However, a true separate disk offers stronger isolation.

A second physical drive:

• Reduces the chance that a single mechanical failure wipes both OS and data

• Allows independent SMART monitoring and testing

• Makes it easier to remove and attach the data drive to another system

If budget allows, prefer a separate disk for important datasets.

Setting Up a Data Drive on Windows

You can move to this layout gradually on an existing system.

Step 1: Prepare and Format the Drive

1. Install the second drive or connect it via SATA or NVMe.

2. Open Disk Management and initialize the disk (MBR or GPT as appropriate).

3. Create one or more NTFS volumes for data.

4. Assign clear drive letters (for example, D: for primary data, E: for archives).

At this stage, you have a blank data drive ready for content.

Step 2: Move User Folders and Libraries

Next, you shift common user locations:

1. Right-click folders such as Documents, Pictures, and Downloads.

2. Open Properties and switch to the Location tab.

3. Click Move… and choose a folder on the data drive.

4. Confirm moving existing files when prompted.

This method tells Windows to store new files directly on the data drive without breaking application expectations.

Step 3: Redirect Application Data

You also want major applications to use the data drive:

• Change default project paths in editing and office tools.

• Point virtual machine storage to the data volume.

• Configure backup software to write archives to the data drive or an additional backup drive.

Additionally, keeping a dedicated folder for recovery-related exports makes later investigations easier when you use Amagicsoft Data Recovery or similar tools.

Data Drive and Amagicsoft Data Recovery

A data drive works well with professional recovery workflows.
When you experience corruption, accidental deletion, or a failing system drive, separation gives you more options.

You can:

• Remove the data drive and attach it to a stable machine

• Install Amagicsoft Data Recovery on a different disk or system

• Scan the data drive in read-only mode and recover to a third device

Because the OS and recovery tools run elsewhere, the data drive sees fewer writes during diagnosis, which increases the chance of successful recovery.

Supports Windows 7/8/10/11 and Windows Server.