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Microsoft expands the FAT32 file system from 32GB to 2TB in Windows 11

The new system was spotted in the last Canary build.

3 min. read

Published onAugust 19, 2024

published onAugust 19, 2024

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Microsoft’slatest build to the Canary Channelis full of exciting and valuable capabilities; some standout features have caught the attention of Windows 11 enthusiasts and tech lovers alike. Firstly, Microsoft is introducing a new Sandbox Client preview for those on the Windows 11 Canary Channel, offering a sandboxed environment for testing and development without risking the central system.

Then, there is also theautomatic switching of HDR settings, significantly reducing the time spent manually enabling them.

However, perhaps even more intriguing is the announcement that Microsoft plans to significantly expand the FAT32 file system limit from 32GB to a whopping 2TB in Windows 11. Spotted by tech enthusiast@xenopanther, this change is a big deal because, let’s face it, in an era where digital content is king, having the flexibility to manage larger partitions without jumping through hoops is a welcome improvement.

This is the output formatting a volume as FAT32 in 27686pic.twitter.com/LcOsEZqMf3

You might wonder, “Why does this matter to me?”. Well, imagine you’re trying to format a large external hard drive or USB stick to store your massive collection of photos, videos, or backup files. Until now, you have been stuck with a 32GB limit unless you opt for other file systems like NTFS or exFAT, which, while helpful, don’t have the same compatibility with older devices.

With this update, Microsoft is essentially removing this barrier, allowing larger FAT32 partitions in Windows 11 to enable a more comprehensive range of devices to read more universally.

But here’s the kicker: as of this build, the change is only accessible via the command line. Yes, you heard that right. For the non-tech-savvy among us, you’d need to dive into some code to take advantage of this new limit. However, Microsoft hints at the possibility of bringing this feature to the GUI-based Format dialogue box in the future, making it much easier for everyone to use.

Another noteworthy update in the same build is the support forReFS (Resilient File System) version 3.15. For those not in the know, ReFS is designed to maximize data availability, efficiently manage large volumes of data, and resist corruption. It’s a file system that’s been slowly integrating into Windows, and this update signifies another step forward in its development.

Build 27686 adds support for ReFS version 3.15. However, Windows still formats partitions with v3.14 (added in 26047).pic.twitter.com/uclg9WMq7f

These updates are part of Microsoft’s continuous effort to enhance Windows 11, making it more robust and user-friendly. While introducing a new Sandbox Client preview is exciting for developers and tech enthusiasts, the increase in the FAT32 limit could benefit a much wider audience by simplifying data management and storage solutions.

Photo credits: XenoPanther, PhantomofEarth

More about the topics:microsoft,Windows 11

Milan Stanojevic

Windows Toubleshooting Expert

Milan has been enthusiastic about technology ever since his childhood days, and this led him to take interest in all PC-related technologies. He’s a PC enthusiast and he spends most of his time learning about computers and technology.

Before joining WindowsReport, he worked as a front-end web developer. Now, he’s one of the Troubleshooting experts in our worldwide team, specializing in Windows errors & software issues.

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Milan Stanojevic

Windows Toubleshooting Expert

Before joining WindowsReport, he worked as a front-end web developer. Now, he’s specialized in Windows errors & software issues.

With KB5043178 to Release Preview Channel, Microsoft advises Windows 11 users to plug in when the battery is low#

Copilot in Outlook will generate personalized themes for you to customize the app#

Microsoft will raise the price of its 365 Suite to include AI capabilities#

Death Stranding Director’s Cut is now Xbox X|S at a huge discount#

Outlook will let users create custom account icons so they can tell their accounts apart easier#

Microsoft expands the FAT32 file system from 32GB to 2TB in Windows 11#