How to Fix "Delete is Not Allowed on the Current Boot System..." Error on Windows

The Error

When trying to delete a partition in Windows, you may encounter the following error:

Virtual Disk Error: Delete is not allowed on the current boot, system, pagefile, crashdump, or hibernation volume.

Why Does This Happen?

• 1. The system is still running from the partition you're trying to delete
  Windows protects active partitions from being deleted.
  Solution: Connect the disk to a different computer as an external drive and delete it there. (Note: For laptops, opening the hardware might be difficult. We recommend keeping the current setup unless necessary.)
• 2. You're attempting to delete the OS partition or EFI System Partition (ESP) while Windows is booted from it
  Since these partitions are critical for system startup, Windows blocks their deletion during runtime.

How to Delete an Extra EFI Partition

Step 1: Identify Which EFI Partition Is Booting the OS

Before attempting deletion, confirm which EFI partition is actively used for booting.

Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:

bcdedit /enum firmware

Under each {bootmgr} or {current} entry, look for the device or path.

• Example output: device partition=\Device\HarddiskVolume1 or partition=C:

Important: Do not delete the partition that's actively booting the system.

Alternative Method: Using Diskpart to View EFI Partitions

Alternatively, use diskpart:

diskpart
list disk
select disk X   (replace X with your disk number)
list partition

Look for a partition labeled EFI SYSTEM PARTITION.

Step 2: Delete the EFI Partition

Once you have confirmed which EFI partition is idle (not in use), proceed with deletion.

Option 1: Use Free Software — IM-Magic Partition Resizer

Download and install IM-Magic Partition Resizer to safely delete EFI, recovery, or system partitions without harming your boot drive.

Option 2: Use Command Line (delete partition override)

If you've connected the disk to another PC as an external drive:

diskpart
list disk
select disk X
list partition
select partition Y
delete partition override

This forces Windows to delete protected partitions.

Important Notes

• Always backup important data before making changes to partitions.
• Deleting the wrong EFI partition can cause your system to fail to boot. Double-check before deleting anything.
• If unsure, consider cloning the disk first or consulting a professional.