How to Shrink Partition with Unmovable Files in Windows 11 10

The Problem: Shrinking a partition in Windows is typically straightforward, but sometimes you may encounter a problem where the system says it cannot move certain files, known as "unmovable files." These files can include the page file, hibernation file, or system restore points. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to successfully shrink a partition even when unmovable files are preventing it.

Causes: Why Can't I Shrink the Partition with unmovable files?

When using Windows Disk Management to shrink a partition, you might receive less available space than expected. This is usually due to unmovable files located toward the end of the volume. Windows cannot move these files easily, which limits how much the volume can be shrunk.

Common Unmovable Files

• Page file (pagefile.sys)
• Hibernation file (hiberfil.sys)
• System restore points
• Shadow copies
• Virtual memory files

How to Shrink Volume with Unmovable Files Windows: For a fast and quick fix, use the free Partition Resizer to easily shrink any volume without losing data. With its user-friendly interface, it moves the unmovable files when shrinking a volume and ensures 100% data safety. The software also includes a "Check Partition" feature to scan and fix bad sectors, plus partition and disk cloning options for added protection.

What's sepcial in Partition Resizer?

• Free of cost
• Move the unmovable files during the process of shrinking a volume
• Easy to use UI

Watch Video: How to Shrink C Drive and Extend D or E Drive

Related article: How to Shrink C Drive and Extend Another Drive

Steps to Shrink Partition with Unmovable Files

If you find any of the following solutions difficult to follow, try the free tool Partition Resizer, which simplifies volume shrinking. What’s more, this free tool can also help you shrink, move, and expand any volume without data loss, as well as clone partitions, convert disks, repair bad blocks, and more.

1. Disable Hibernation

Hibernation creates a large hiberfil.sys file that can block shrinking.

powercfg /h off

2. Turn Off System Protection

System restore points can prevent partition shrinking.

• Right-click on "This PC" and select "Properties"
• Click "System Protection" on the left sidebar
• Select the drive and click "Configure"
• Choose "Disable system protection" and click "OK"

3. Temporarily Move the Page File

Moving or disabling the page file allows Windows to shrink the partition more freely.

• Go to Control Panel > System > Advanced system settings
• Under "Performance", click "Settings"
• Go to the "Advanced" tab and click "Change..." under Virtual Memory
• Uncheck "Automatically manage paging file size"
• Select "No paging file" for the current drive and click "Set"
• Restart your computer

4. Use a Third-Party Partition Tool

If built-in tools still can't help, use reliable third-party software such as:

• IM-Magic Partition Resizer (100% Free)
• MiniTool Partition Wizard
• EaseUS Partition Master

These tools can often shrink partitions by safely moving unmovable files.

Important Tips Before You Shrink

• Always back up important data before modifying partitions
• Disable antivirus temporarily to avoid conflicts
• Ensure your system has a stable power source (especially on laptops)

FAQs

Question: Why is Windows not letting me shrink partition?

Windows may not let you shrink a partition because of unmovable files located near the end of the disk, such as system files, page file, hibernation file, or shadow copies. These files block the shrinking process since Windows can only shrink a volume up to the point where these files exist. To resolve this, you can:

• Disable hibernation (run powercfg /hibernate off in Command Prompt).
• Turn off system protection and delete shadow copies.
• Temporarily move or disable the page file.
• Use third-party partition tools that can move or ignore unmovable files.

Question: What is unmovable files?

Unmovable files are system-critical files that Windows locks in place and cannot relocate during disk operations. Examples include:

• Page file – used for virtual memory.
• Hibernation file – stores memory contents when the system hibernates.
• System restore points – stored as shadow copies.
• Metadata or system logs – required for system stability.

Because these files reside at fixed positions on the disk, they can limit resizing operations like shrinking a partition.

Conclusion

Shrinking a partition blocked by unmovable files can be frustrating, but it’s not impossible. By disabling certain system features and using third-party tools, you can regain control of your disk space. Follow the above steps carefully, and you’ll be able to resize your partitions without risking your data.