Microsoft Finally Ups FAT32 Size Limit
Hackaday • • technology
Key Points:
- Microsoft has updated the FAT32 file system support in the latest Windows 11 Insider Preview, allowing users to format FAT32 drives up to 2 TB, a significant increase from the previous 32 GB limit.
- The original 32 GB formatting limit was not a technical restriction of the FAT32 specification but rather a decision made over 30 years ago during the creation of the Windows Format dialogue box.
- The FAT32 file system inherently supports volumes up to 2 TB with 512-byte sectors due to its 32-bit sector count field, meaning larger volumes have been possible but not easily formatted using Microsoft's standard tools.
- This update also affects the command line format tool, making it easier for users to create larger FAT32 partitions without relying on third-party software.
