Changing the default install location on Windows 10 can free up space on your main drive and help keep your files organized. Here’s how to do it: First, open the Settings app, navigate to System, and then Storage. From there, you can change where new content is saved. Select a different drive for apps, documents, music, pictures, and videos.
How to Change Default Install Location Windows 10
In this step-by-step tutorial, you’ll learn how to change the default install location for new apps and content on your Windows 10 machine. This will help you to manage your storage more efficiently.
Step 1: Open the Settings App
To begin, click on the Start menu and select the gear icon to open the Settings app.
The Settings app is the hub where you can tweak most of your Windows settings, including storage options.
Step 2: Go to System
Once in Settings, click on the "System" option.
The System tab contains several important settings, including those for display, notifications, and storage.
Step 3: Navigate to Storage
In the System menu, select "Storage" from the list of options on the left.
The Storage section gives you a detailed overview of how your disk space is being used and lets you change where new content is saved.
Step 4: Change Where New Content is Saved
Scroll down and click on the link that says "Change where new content is saved."
Here, you’ll find options to change the default save locations for apps, documents, music, pictures, and videos.
Step 5: Select a Different Drive
For each type of content you’d like to move, use the drop-down menus to select a different drive.
You might have multiple drives listed here. Choose the one where you’d prefer your new apps and content to be saved.
After completing these steps, Windows will start saving new apps and content to the different drives you’ve selected.
Tips For Changing Default Install Location Windows 10
- Check Available Space: Before changing the default location, make sure the new drive has enough free space.
- Use an External Drive: If your internal drives are full, consider using an external hard drive.
- Compatibility: Ensure the new drive is always connected when you install new apps or save new content.
- Backup: Always back up important data before making changes to your system settings.
- Keep System Files Intact: Don’t move system files or programs related to Windows itself as it could cause instability.
Frequently Asked Questions About Changing Default Install Location Windows 10
Can I change the install location for already installed apps?
No, this method only works for new apps and content. You would need to manually move existing apps and change their install paths.
What happens if my new drive is disconnected?
If the new drive is disconnected, Windows will default back to the primary drive until the new one is reconnected.
Will this affect my system performance?
Generally, no. However, using slower external drives could impact the speed of accessing new content.
Can I revert back to the original settings?
Yes, you can follow the same steps and select your original drive as the default save location.
Do I need administrative privileges?
Yes, you need administrative privileges to change the default install location.
Summary of Steps
- Open the Settings App.
- Go to System.
- Navigate to Storage.
- Change Where New Content is Saved.
- Select a Different Drive.
Conclusion
Changing the default install location on Windows 10 is a simple yet effective way to manage your storage space. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily redirect new content to a different drive, preventing your main drive from getting cluttered. This is especially useful if you have a small SSD as your primary drive and a larger secondary drive.
Remember, always check the available space on the new drive and ensure it’s connected when saving new content. This process helps in keeping your system organized and can even improve performance by balancing the workload across multiple drives.
If you found this guide helpful, feel free to explore other Windows 10 tips and tricks. Happy computing!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.