How to Move Files from C Drive to D Drive in Windows 11: A Guide

By / September 17, 2025

When your C drive is running out of space, your PC may slow down, apps may crash, and Windows updates may fail. One of the easiest solutions is to move files, folders, and even apps from the C drive (system drive) to the D drive (or any other secondary drive).

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll cover why you should move files, how to do it safely, and multiple methods — from simple drag-and-drop to using Storage Sense and symbolic links — so you can free up space without breaking Windows.

📌 Key Takeaways

  • Moving files from C drive to D drive helps improve system performance and free up storage space.

  • You can move documents, downloads, videos, pictures, and even installed apps safely.

  • Use built-in Windows features like Storage Settings, Move feature in Apps, or manually cut and paste files.

  • Always avoid moving Windows system files unless you know what you’re doing.

Why Move Files from C Drive to D Drive?

Here are the most common reasons:

  • Low Storage Warnings: Windows frequently alerts you when space is running out.

  • Better Performance: More free space means faster updates and smoother performance.

  • Organization: Keep personal files separate from system files for better management.

  • Safer Backups: Storing important data on a different drive protects it if you need to reinstall Windows.

Understanding C and D Drives in Windows 11

  • C Drive: This is usually your system drive where Windows 11, installed programs, and critical system files live.

  • D Drive: This is often a separate partition or physical drive where you can safely store personal files, games, or backups.

⚠️ Important Precautions Before Moving Files

Before you start:

  • Backup important data. Use OneDrive, Google Drive, or an external hard drive.

  • Avoid moving Program Files or Windows folders — this can break your system.

  • Check available space on D drive (Settings → System → Storage).

Method 1: Manually Move Files (Cut and Paste)

This is the simplest and most common method.

  1. Open File Explorer (Win + E).

  2. Navigate to the folders you want to move (Documents, Pictures, Downloads).

  3. Select the files/folders → Right-click → Cut.

  4. Go to D drive and Right-click → Paste.

✅ Best for: Large files, videos, photos, downloads.

Method 2: Change Default Save Locations

You can make Windows save future files directly to D drive:

  1. Go to Settings → System → Storage.

  2. Click Advanced storage settings → Where new content is saved.

  3. Change save locations for:

    • New documents

    • New music

    • New photos and videos

    • New apps (optional)

This prevents C drive from filling up again.

Method 3: Move Installed Apps to D Drive

Many Windows Store apps can be moved:

  1. Open Settings → Apps → Installed Apps.

  2. Select an app → Click Move.

  3. Choose D drive as the new location.

📌 Note: Some desktop apps don’t support this — you’ll need to uninstall and reinstall them to D drive manually.

Method 4: Use Storage Sense

Storage Sense can automatically move files from C drive to OneDrive (cloud storage), freeing up space:

  1. Open Settings → System → Storage.

  2. Enable Storage Sense and configure cleanup schedule.

  3. Use “Free up space now” option to remove unnecessary files.

Method 5: Use Symbolic Links (Advanced)

If you need to move specific program data folders:

  1. Move the folder to D drive.

  2. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.

  3. Type:

    mklink /D "C:\\OldFolderPath" "D:\\NewFolderPath"

  4. Press Enter — Windows will redirect all access to the new location.

⚠️ Use with caution. Ideal for games or large software data folders.

Recommended Folders to Move Safely

Folder Type Safe to Move? Recommended?
Documents ✅ Yes ✅
Downloads ✅ Yes ✅
Pictures/Videos ✅ Yes ✅
Desktop Items ✅ Yes ⚠️ Move carefully
Program Files ❌ No ❌
Windows Folder ❌ No ❌

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Files Won’t Move: Check permissions — right-click folder → Properties → Security → give yourself full control.

  • C Drive Still Full: Empty Recycle Bin and use Disk Cleanup.

  • Moved Apps Not Working: Reinstall them directly on D drive.

Best Practices for Future Storage Management

  • Schedule regular disk cleanup.

  • Store large games, movies, and ISO files on D drive.

  • Keep at least 20–30 GB free space on C drive for smooth updates.

Conclusion

Moving files from C drive to D drive in Windows 11 is one of the easiest ways to reclaim storage space and boost performance. Whether you use manual cut-paste, change default save locations, or move apps, keeping your C drive clean ensures Windows stays fast and responsive.

Start by moving personal folders first, then consider adjusting future save locations so you don’t face the same issue again.

FAQs

1. Can I move Program Files to D drive?

No, moving Program Files manually can break apps. Use the “Move” feature or reinstall apps on D drive.

2. Will moving files speed up my PC?

Yes — freeing up space improves performance, especially if your C drive was nearly full.

3. Can I move OneDrive folder to D drive?

Yes, you can change OneDrive’s folder location in its settings.

4. Is it safe to delete files from C drive?

Yes, as long as you don’t delete system folders (Windows, Program Files).

5. What if I don’t have a D drive?

You can create a new partition from unallocated space via Disk Management or use an external drive.

Related Posts:

Scroll to Top