How to Shrink C Drive Beyond Limit in Windows 11 10 Server

The Limit: If you use Disk Management, the Shrink Volume window displays the following information:

• Total size before shrink (in MB) (Default; cannot be modified)

• Size of available shrink space (in MB) (Default; cannot be modified. This is the maximum shrink limit—you cannot shrink the volume beyond this point.)

• Enter the amount of space to shrink (in MB):

  • By default, this matches the available shrink space. (If the drive contains unmovable files, the default value may not work)

  • You can enter a smaller number, but you cannot exceed the shrink limit.

  • If your C: drive contains unmovable files, the default value may not work—you must enter a smaller number.

Causes: Unmovable files prevent the volume from being shrunk.

Easier, Faster & Free Fix: Partition Resizer is a free Windows tool that simplifies partition resizing—without data loss. Unlike Disk Management, it offers:

• Drag-and-drop resizing: Adjust your C: drive (or any drive) by dragging its border.

• User-friendly UI: Easier and more intuitive than built-in tools.

• Safe shrinking: Avoids issues caused by unmovable files.

Video1: How to shrink a volume C to extend D or E

Also read: how to shrink C extend another drive

Disk Management and CMD Diskpart VS Partition Resizer on Shrinking Partition

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