Moving apps to an external hard drive on Windows 11 can help free up space on your primary drive, making your computer run faster. To do this, you will need to adjust some settings and move the apps manually. This guide will walk you through each step to ensure you can efficiently move your apps without any issues.
How to Move Apps to an External Hard Drive on Windows 11
This step-by-step tutorial will guide you through moving apps from your internal drive to an external hard drive on a Windows 11 machine. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll have successfully managed to free up space on your internal drive.
Step 1: Connect Your External Hard Drive
Ensure that the external hard drive is connected to your computer via USB.
Having a stable connection is essential. Make sure your external hard drive has enough space to accommodate the apps you want to move.
Step 2: Go to Settings
Open the Settings app by pressing the Windows key + I.
In the Settings app, you will find various options to manage your system. This is where you can control where new apps are saved.
Step 3: Select System
Click on the "System" option in the Settings menu.
The System menu contains all the settings needed to manage your computer’s hardware and software. This is where you will find the storage settings.
Step 4: Click on Storage
In the System menu, select "Storage."
Storage settings display how much space is being used on your drives and provide options to manage this space efficiently.
Step 5: Change Where New Content is Saved
Scroll down to find the "Change where new content is saved" option and click on it.
This option allows you to specify a different drive for new app installations. You can choose your external hard drive here.
Step 6: Move Existing Apps
Go back to the Settings app, then go to "Apps" and select "Apps & features."
Here, you’ll see a list of installed apps. You can then select an app and choose to move it to the external hard drive.
What Happens After Moving Apps to an External Hard Drive
Once you’ve moved your apps, they will run from the external hard drive. This can help free up space on your internal drive, making your system faster. However, remember that you will need to keep the external hard drive connected whenever you want to use these apps.
Tips for Moving Apps to an External Hard Drive on Windows 11
- Ensure your external hard drive has enough storage space before moving apps.
- Keep your external hard drive connected to prevent issues running the transferred apps.
- Regularly back up your data in case of drive failure.
- Use a USB 3.0 or higher connection for faster data transfers.
- Check app requirements; some apps may not function well from an external drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I move any app to an external hard drive?
No, some system apps and certain applications might not support being moved to an external hard drive.
What happens if I disconnect the external hard drive?
Apps moved to the external hard drive won’t run until the drive is reconnected.
Is it safe to run apps from an external hard drive?
Yes, but ensure the hard drive is properly connected to avoid data corruption.
Will moving apps affect their performance?
Generally, no, but slower external drives might affect the load times.
Can I move games to an external hard drive?
Yes, most games can be moved to an external hard drive.
Summary
- Connect your external hard drive.
- Open Settings by pressing Windows key + I.
- Select System.
- Click on Storage.
- Choose "Change where new content is saved."
- Move existing apps via "Apps & Features."
Conclusion
Moving apps to an external hard drive on Windows 11 can be a game-changer for anyone struggling with limited internal storage. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can declutter your primary drive and potentially improve your system’s performance. Remember to keep your external drive connected when using these moved apps to avoid any hitches. Regularly check for updates and back up your data to ensure a smooth experience. For more tips and tricks on managing your Windows 11 system, stay tuned and keep exploring.
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.