FAT32 or NTFS for xp-pro

[jumpingrat]

Although I have a decent understanding of the differences

between the FAT32 and NTFS file systems, I wonder if anyone out

there has any input or sugestions on which file system would be

best for running xp pro.

I am currently running xp in a FAT32 partition on my HD, but

intend to add a seperate physical drive and install xp on it. Any

input would be greatly appreciated.:D

[njeddiek]

Opinions vary widely on this. Basically NTFS has more overhead(slower)but has many advantages; file integrity, fragmentation, security(if needed), less wasted space when used on large volumes or partitions, etc. Fat32 has less overhead so the read/write times are faster. So it depends on what you consider is more important, total speed or data integrity.
Since your running XP pro and not Home use NTFS.

[Dakota]

I used FAT32. I have no purpose for the security that NTFS offers and speed is a concern. Also, from that I have read, when NTFS crashes, it crashes really hard and FAT32 is more easily recoverable. Hence the extra NTFS security.

[jumpingrat]

'preciate the input. I guess it's going to boil down to personal preferences.

[Dakota]

Yeah. Pretty much. Both methods have good and bad points. Depends on your particular use. On the other hand, I have never used NTFS, so my personal experience is one-sided, though well informed, thanks to this forum. :)

[jumpingrat]

I'm more two-sided and uninformed. lol

Does that count?:)

[mnosteele52]

It is a personal preference and I prefer NTFS, my logic is it's more stable and much more advanced so why have a superior OS such as 2K or XP and not take full advantage of all the advanced features? Anyway look here (http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone/columns/russel/october01.asp) for a good article comparing the two.:) ;)

[Dakota]

Originally posted by jumpingrat
I'm more two-sided and uninformed. lol

Does that count?:)

ROFL! Sure, why not. Welcome to the clan here. You're gonna fit right in. ;) I'm off the read mnosteele52's link...

[jumpingrat]

Thanx for the great link mnosteele52, if that wont get me decided then I'm doomed to wishy-washiness. And thanx Dakota..this is a nice forum i.e. low jerk to good opinion ratio...Oh well now to figure out my MB jumper settings!

[Set]

keep in mind that win98 Me 95 cant use ntfs so you willn't be able to see them files in par of ntfs win in other os boot

less you use 2k and want xp as well


i dont know usen them both? id lean to fat32

i dont keep the top class docs. on the pc Ntfs is slower and i am a big gammer

no file format realy crashed on me it's the harddrive you got to worry bout when them go it dont realy matter fat32 Ntfs

lol blah blah i am goin on and on

id say go with what ya need NTFS is for severs and people that need to hide stuff its not faster and u can format to NTFS saving your data but no goin back to fat32


lol if you didnt already go Ntfs if so how ya like it?

[jumpingrat]

Drum roll please......

I threw in a new el-cheepo hard drive got it working on the first try (A very rare occourence :mad: ) and installed xp-pro in a FAT32 partition, and because I can't just leave well enough alone I partitioned my primary drive. Set aside 4GB of NTFS and installed xp there too.

As soon as I call in "sick" to work, I will compare the two....Oh man I really need to get a life :D :D