How to move the Windows user folder to another drive

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Moving the Windows user folder to another drive can help free up space on your primary drive and improve system performance. This guide provides detailed methods to accomplish this task safely and effectively.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before moving the Windows user folder, ensure you have the following:
  • •A secondary drive with sufficient space to accommodate the user folder.
  • •Administrator permissions on your Windows account.
  • •Backup of important data, as moving user folders can lead to data loss if not done correctly.
  • •A reliable method to restore your system, such as a system restore point or backup software.

Method 1: Using Windows Settings

This method is straightforward and utilizes built-in Windows features to relocate the user folder.
  • •Step 1: Open Settings by pressing `Windows + I`.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to `System` > `Storage`.
  • •Step 3: Click on `Change where new content is saved`.
  • •Step 4: Under each category (Documents, Music, Pictures, etc.), select the new drive from the dropdown menu.
  • •Step 5: Click `Apply` to save changes.
  • •Step 6: Verify the changes by checking the new location of the folders in File Explorer.
  • •Step 7: If the folders do not appear in the new location, restart your computer and check again.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 specific steps may include additional interface changes.
  • •Step 1: Open Settings by pressing `Windows + I`.
  • •Step 2: Click on `System`, then `Storage`.
  • •Step 3: Scroll down and click on `Advanced storage settings`.
  • •Step 4: Select `Where new content is saved` and choose the new drive for each content type.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users may find slightly different paths.
  • •Step 1: Open Settings by pressing `Windows + I`.
  • •Step 2: Go to `System`, then `Storage`.
  • •Step 3: Click on `Change where new content is saved` and select the new drive for each folder type.

Method 2: Using Command Prompt

This method is ideal for advanced users who prefer command-line operations.
  • •Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator by searching for `cmd`, right-clicking, and selecting `Run as administrator`.
  • •Step 2: Use the command `mklink /J C:\Users\YourUsername\Documents D:\NewLocation\Documents` to create a junction link.
  • •Step 3: Replace `YourUsername` with your actual username and `D:\NewLocation` with the path to the new drive.
  • •Step 4: Press `Enter` to execute the command.
  • •Step 5: Verify the link by navigating to the original folder location and checking if it redirects to the new location.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while moving the user folder, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: `Access Denied` - Solution: Ensure you are running the command prompt as Administrator.
  • •Issue: Folders not appearing in the new location - Fix: Restart your computer and check the drive again.
  • •Problem: `The system cannot find the path specified` - Workaround: Double-check the paths used in commands or settings.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users looking to optimize their workflow:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: `Windows + E` - Opens File Explorer quickly.
  • •Command line: `robocopy` - Use for advanced file copying with error handling.
  • •Hidden feature: `Storage Sense` - Automatically frees up space by deleting unnecessary files.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best results, consider using a combination of methods and always ensure you have backups.