Hard Disk : Understanding Partitions

After a disk has been physically formatted, it can be divided into separate physical
sections or partitions. Each partition functions as an individual unit, and can be logically
formatted with any desired file system. Once a disk partition has been logically formatted,
it is referred to as a volume.
As part of the formatting operation, you are asked to give the partition a name, called the
“volume label.” This name helps you easily identify the volume.

Why Use Multiple Partitions?
Many hard disks are formatted as one large partition. This setup, however, doesn’t always
provide the best possible use of your disk space or resources. The alternative is to separate
your hard disk into partitions. Using multiple partitions, you can:
• Install more than one OS on your hard disk;
• Make the most efficient use of your available disk space;
• Make your files as secure as possible;
• Physically separate data so that it is easy to find files and back up data.
The following sections discuss partitions in greater detail, helping you create and use
partitions to get the most out of your hard disk.