When it comes to using your PS4’s external storage drive with a Windows computer, you’ll need to format the drive beforehand. This process allows your Windows operating system to recognize and interact with the storage device properly. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to format PS4 hard drive for Windows 11/10.
Before Getting Started
Before we proceed, it’s essential to understand the different file system formats available and choose the one that best suits your needs. Windows primarily supports two file system formats: NTFS (New Technology File System) and FAT32 (File Allocation Table 32).
NTFS is the most common file system used in modern Windows operating systems. It offers several advantages, such as support for large file sizes, improved security through file and folder permissions, better file compression, and more.
On the other hand, FAT32 may seem a bit outdated compared to NTFS. It has a maximum file size limit of 4GB and lacks some of the security and advanced features found in NTFS. However, FAT32 is compatible with other operating systems like macOS and Linux, making it a universally supported file system.
However, in regards to the best file system format for your PS4, you have two options: FAT32 and exFAT. Here’s a brief explanation of each:
FAT32 is a compatible file system format with a maximum file size limit of 4GB as explained above. If you plan to store large-sized games, which is common on the PS4, FAT32 may not be suitable due to its file size limitations.
exFAT, on the other hand, supports larger file sizes and is recommended for storing files exceeding 4GB. It offers better compatibility and flexibility in file management.
Basic Steps To Format PS4 Hard Drive for Windows 11/10
Now that we understand the file system formats, let’s move on to the steps to format a PS4 hard drive for Windows 11/10. The best way to go about that is by using the built-in Disk Management tool. Here are the steps to follow:
- Press the Windows key + X to launch the quick menu.
- Select “Disk Management” from the list of options. This will open the Disk Management tool.
- In the Disk Management window, locate your PS4’s removable storage device. It should be listed among the drives.
- Right-click on the PS4 drive and select the “Format” option from the context menu. This will open a new formatting menu.
- In the formatting menu, choose your desired file system format from the dropdown menu. If you’re primarily using the external drive with your PS4, select exFAT. If you intend to use it on both PS4 and Windows, choose FAT32.
- Adjust any other settings according to your requirements, such as the volume label.
- Once you’ve made the necessary selections, click on the “OK” button to begin the formatting process.
Note: It’s worth noting that formatting a hard drive erases all data on the drive. Make sure you have backed up any important files before proceeding with the formatting process.
Final Words
Formatting a PS4 hard drive for Windows 11/10 involves using the Disk Management tool in Windows. Select the appropriate file system format based on your specific needs, and follow the steps outlined above to format the drive successfully. By doing so, you’ll ensure compatibility and optimal performance between your PS4 and Windows computer.
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