Safely Move Program Files Folder to Another Drive Windows 10/11

To move program files to another drive, you can use several ways. For most programs, you can transfer the programs with EaseUS Todo PCTrans. For apps installed from the Microsoft Store, Windows Settings' "Apps & features" allows you to move them directly to a different drive with ease. Alternatively, manual methods such as creating directory junctions via File Explorer and Command Prompt can also help relocate program folders while maintaining system stability.

It would be best to ponder the query "How do I move the program files folder to another drive" without hampering the PC's functionality. Here, you will get a breakthrough of your question and practical solutions to your problem. Before reading, take a quick look at the three solutions on how to move program files to another drive.

💻Way	🔍Supported Apps	👍Best For	🚫Risk	⏱️Speed
EaseUS Todo PCTrans	Most installed apps (including traditional and some UWP apps)	Users wanting  simple, safe transfer	Low	Fast
Manual with Directory Junction	Most installed apps but require careful handling	Advanced users are omfortable with commands	High	Slow
Windows "Move" Feature	Only apps supporting Move option	Users moving supported UWP apps	Low	Moderate

How to Move the Program File Folder to Another Drive - 3 Ways 

You can use three ways to move the program file folder to another drive. This part will focus on the three ways. Follow the guides, which are described below:

Way 1. Move the Program File Folder to Another Drive Automatically

EaseUS Todo PCTrans helps transfer settings, programs, and every bit of your important data to a new device. This software is valuable for transferring large files at high speed and providing increased security. The plus point is its stability, safety, cost efficiency, and convenience while transferring large files regardless of distance, size, or network conditions. Now, download it and follow the guide below.

Here is how to move program files to another drive with EaseUS Todo PCTrans.

Step 1. Launch EaseUS Todo PCTrans and select transfer mode

On the main screen of EaseUS Todo PCTrans, go to "Local Migration" section and click "Start" to continue.

Step 2. Select apps and another drive to transfer

1. Select the source partition and tick applications, programs and software (marked as "Yes") that you'd like to migrate.

2. Click triangle icon to select another drive or disk as your target device and click "Transfer" to start the migration.

Step 3. Finish the migration process

When the transferring process finishes, click "OK" to complete.

You can restart your PC to keep all the changes, and you should be able to run your migrated apps on the other drive again.

You May Also Like

You can use this file transfer software as it offers a variety of lucrative features:

• It enables users to move files from the C drive to the D drive.
• You can also quickly shift videos, photos, and MS Office files.
• It helps move the game from C to D safely.
• It helps in safely cleaning irrelevant system files.
• It helps move apps to SSD.
• It removes temporary files from the C drive and creates more space on the disk to provide PC efficiency.
• It can transfer files from PC to laptop.
• It helps in quickly removing unnecessary files of enormous size.

Download it to help with your transfer issues.

Way 2. Move the Program File Folder to Another Drive Manually

You can generate a Directory Junction for moving program files to another drive. This method may include some risk because manual steps are prone to mistakes, affecting the program function. Let's see some important notes for this method:

• Be careful to copy all program files completely before deleting the originals to avoid data loss.
• Incorrect use of mklink or deleting the wrong files can cause programs to break or malfunction.
• This method suits advanced users familiar with the Windows file system and commands.
• Always test programs after moving to ensure they function correctly.

Here is how to move program files to another drive.

Step 1. Start by launching "File Explorer." Then go ahead with browsing to the root of the drive for the destination. Then, make a right tap and choose "New" and then select "Folder." Here, you have to give an appropriate name to the folder in which your program files will be saved. 

Step 2: Move ahead by opening a new wizard of "File Explorer" and start browsing the folder contained in the source drive. This folder must have program files. Make a selection of highlighted files, including the program files you need to move. Then move ahead by copying the folder by pressing the "Ctrl + C" keys. 

Step 3: After that, you can move to the other window of File Explorer and choose the created folder. Next, you must paste the program files into the new drive using the "Ctrl + V" keys. 

Step 4: Herein, you have to select the window of another File Explorer. Then tap on the highlighted folder containing the program files that are shifted from their original location. Then go ahead by pressing the "Delete" button, and to give confirmation, tap on "Yes."

Step 5: Now, on the ribbon, choose "File" and "Open command prompt as admin." Then, confirm the prompt for control of user access.

Step 6: Go ahead by typing mklink / J, utilizing the full drive letter. You will also have to use the previous and current location paths for program files. Then press "Enter."

Step 7: As a last step, run the program to ensure the proper execution of commands.

If you find it difficult to follow these steps, turn to an easier choice - EaseUS Todo PCTrans.

Way 3. Move the Program File Folder to Another Drive via the "Move" Feature

This feature not only moves the program from one drive to another drive but also can relocate the corresponding program files. This method is only available for apps installed via the Microsoft Store or apps that support this feature. Here are some notes for this method.

• The 'Move' option is not available for all programs; traditional desktop programs usually require reinstalling.
• Ensure the destination drive has enough free space before moving.
• Move apps one by one; no batch move option available.
• This method is safe and uses official Windows functionality but is limited to supported apps.

Just try it following the guide on how to move program files to another drive.

Step 1. Click the Start menu > Choose Settings > System > Click Apps & Features, then you will see a list of programs you've installed.

Step 2. Choose an app and choose the Move option under the specified apps, and then select a destination on another drive.

Step 3. Click Move to start.

Step 4. Repeat the process until the last program is moved to another drive.

You may also like:

Important Tips for Moving Program Files to Another Drive

This section provides important tips to help you safely and effectively move your program files to a different drive, ensuring your applications continue to run smoothly after the move.

💡Tip 1. Check Program Compatibility

Not all programs can be moved easily. Some, especially older or complex software, may require reinstallation on the new drive to function correctly.

💡Tip 2. Use Appropriate Tools

For a safe and hassle-free transfer, use dedicated software like EaseUS Todo PCTrans, which handles program files, settings, and dependencies efficiently.

💡Tip 3. Backup Before Moving

Always back up your important data and create a system restore point before starting the move. This helps prevent data loss or system issues if anything goes wrong during the process. EaseUS Todo PCTrans can help create a system restore point.

💡Tip 4. Sufficient Disk Space

Ensure the destination drive has enough free space to accommodate all program files and related data before beginning the move.

Let us learn descriptively about three ways you can move the folder of a program file to another drive. Don't hesitate to share this article to help more users transfer program file folders to another drive.

Why You Move the Program File Folder to Another Drive 

You can move the Program File folder to another drive. Moving the folder provides you with unique advantages you may be unaware of. Check out some benefits of moving the program file folder to another drive. These are:

• It prevents the flashing of warnings related to low disk space.
• It helps in changing the default location for the installation of files.
• It assists in freeing up the space captured on the hard drive associated with the original drive.
• It improves the efficiency of your system as it works faster after the area gets emptied in the C drive.

Conclusion 

It is generally not recommended to move the entire "Program Files" folder to another drive because of the registry and system stability. Individual programs can often be moved. We have discussed various solutions for moving the program files to another drive for obvious reasons, to create some space in the C drive. For example, you can either use a manual method of generating a Directory Junction for moving program files to another drive or opt for an automatic process. 

However, we recommend using EaseUS Todo PCTrans if you want to fix your automatic "how do I move the program files folder to another drive" issue. Not only does it do the job in an automatic mode, but its superb features also assist you with other benefits to Windows file transfer instantly.

How to Move the Program Files Folder to Another Drive FAQs 

We hope we helped you with your query, but if you still have some questions, check them out in our popular FAQs below.

1. Can I move program files from the C drive to the D drive?

Yes, you can move program files from the C drive to the D drive by following the steps:

• Right-tap on the Windows icon and select "Apps and features."
• Make a selection of programs and tap on "Move," and select a D drive. Then give confirmation.
• Wait for the process to show results.

2. How do I move programs from the C drive to another drive?

You can move programs from a C drive to another drive by using the steps:

• Start copying folders of "Program Files (x86)" or "Program Files" and paste them into another drive of your choice.
• Go ahead by pressing and holding the "Win + R" keys to open the Run tool. Start typing "Regedit" and tap on the "OK" option. 
• Follow the path as HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\MICROSOFT\Windows\CurrentVersion.
• Make a right tap on "Program Files" and tap on "Modify."

Make edits to the location by erasing the letter and typing the desired one. Then tap on "OK."

3. Should program files be on C or D?

D drive is a good choice. Since the D drive usually has a larger capacity and fewer files, while the C drive always covers the OS.

4. Can I move all programs to another drive?

No, not all programs are movable. Most traditional desktop programs require reinstallation on the new drive or use of specialized software like EaseUS Todo PCTrans to safely transfer them.

If you find this post helpful, share it with your friends.