As mentioned in our article about file systems, FAT32 was introduced in 1996, following FAT16. For those with a keen interest in history, it’s worth noting that FAT16 was dominant at the launch of Windows 95. We had to wait for the OSR2 (OEM Service Release 2) version for FAT32 to be implemented.
From FAT32 to 2TB for Insiders in Windows 11
To clarify, FAT32 uses 28-bit encoding, which allows for a maximum file size of 4 GB and a partition size of 2 TB. However, it’s important to highlight that Microsoft’s built-in tools could not exceed 32 GB. In contrast, third-party software enabled users to bypass this arbitrary limitation.
Nearly 30 years after the introduction of FAT32, Microsoft is finally lifting the arbitrary 32 GB limit in Windows 11. To access this feature, users need to be part of the Insider channel, have the Preview Build 27686 (which includes additional features), and utilize the command line.
“When formatting disks from the command line using the ‘format’ command, we have raised the FAT32 size limit from 32 GB to 2 TB,” which is the maximum allowed by the file system. And it works, as noted by Xeno on X.
This is the output formatting a volume as FAT32 in 27686 pic.twitter.com/LcOsEZqMf3
— Xeno (@XenoPanther) August 15, 2024
At present, only the command line is impacted, not the dialog box, which is beginning to show its age. This feature is currently available in the Insider channel and may not be included in the final versions, so stay tuned.
A temporary dialog box… for 30 years
In March of this year, Dave Plummer, a former Microsoft employee, reflected on the well-known graphical interface used to format a storage device. He noted, “A rainy Thursday morning at Microsoft, late 1994.”
“We were porting the billions of lines of Windows 95 user interface code to NT, and Format was one of the areas where Windows NT was different enough from Windows 95 that we had to create a custom user interface.”
After working with Visual C++ 2.0, an initial version was developed. “That was about 30 years ago, and the dialog box is still my temporary version from that Thursday morning, so be cautious with ‘temporary’ solutions,” he joked.
He took the opportunity to emphasize that the 32 GB limit was “an arbitrary choice made that morning, which turned into a permanent side effect. So, remember… there are no ‘temporary’ versions :)”
As we explained in our article on file systems, FAT32 (File Allocation Table 32) arrived in 1996, following the predecessor FAT16. For archaeology enthusiasts, we recall that FAT16 was ubiquitous at the launch of Windows 95. We had to wait for the OEM Service Release 2 (OSR2) for FAT32 to make its debut, bringing enhanced capabilities and support for larger storage devices.
From FAT32 to 2TB for Insiders under Windows 11
FAT32 utilizes 28-bit encoding, which allows for a maximum file size of 4 GB and supports partitions up to 2 TB. However, it’s crucial to note that Microsoft’s integrated formatting tools were historically limited, allowing only up to 32 GB partition sizes. This limitation existed despite third-party software being available to bypass it.
Nearly 30 years after its original release, Microsoft is finally lifting the arbitrary 32 GB limit in Windows 11 for users in the Insider channel. This change is part of the Preview Build 27686, which includes other enhanced features that collectively shape the future of Windows. To unlock this new capability, users must leverage the command line.
“When formatting disks from the command line using the ‘format’ command, we increased the FAT32 size limit from 32 GB to 2 TB,” Microsoft’s team emphasized, marking a significant milestone for file system enthusiasts. A leading figure in the community, Xeno, confirmed this functionality on social media.
This is the output formatting a volume as FAT32 in 27686 pic.twitter.com/LcOsEZqMf3
— Xeno (@XenoPanther) August 15, 2024
Currently, the command line encompasses this new feature, whereas the traditional dialog box appears to be left behind, showcasing its age. Keyword: FAT32 in Windows 11 is evolving, but its complete rollout remains to be seen as part of future updates.
A Temporary Dialog Box… for 30 Years
In an interesting twist, Dave Plummer, formerly of Microsoft, recently revisited the classic graphical interface for formatting a storage device. In a nostalgic tweet, he recounted, “A rainy Thursday morning at Microsoft, late 1994.” He shared insights about the transition from Windows 95’s user interface code to NT and how formatting became a distinctive element where customization was paramount.
“We were porting the billions of lines of Windows 95 user interface code to NT, and Format was one of the areas where Windows NT was different enough from Windows 95 that we had to create a custom user interface.”
After a passage through Visual C++ 2.0, a rudimentary version of the formatting dialog box was born. Plummer noted, “That was about 30 years ago, and the dialog box is still my temporary version of that Thursday morning, so be careful when making ‘temporary’ solutions.” His remarks highlight the lasting impact of initial decisions in software design, as he pointed out the 32 GB limit as an arbitrary choice that stuck over the decades.
Benefits of the New FAT32 Formatting Capability
- Increased Partition Sizes: Users can now format FAT32 partitions up to 2 TB, providing greater flexibility for storage needs.
- Compatibility: FAT32 remains widely compatible with various devices and operating systems, making it a practical option for external drives and flash disks.
- Efficiency: For many users, handling files larger than 4 GB is unnecessary, but having a larger partition space simplifies data organization.
- User Empowerment: Access to command-line tools gives savvy users the power to manage their disk partitions with precision.
Practical Tips for Formatting with FAT32 in Windows 11
- Backup Your Data: Always create a backup before formatting to prevent potential data loss.
- Access the Command Line: Open Command Prompt as an administrator to execute the format command properly.
- Use Correct Syntax: The correct syntax for formatting to FAT32 is:
format /FS:FAT32 X:
Replace
X:with your drive letter. - Monitor the Process: The command line will display the formatting progress—ensure that the process completes before removing the drive.
Case Studies: Real-World Applications of FAT32
Numerous organizations and individuals benefit from the enhanced FAT32 capabilities. Here are a few examples:
- Content Creators: Filmmakers and videographers often work with storage-intensive media files. The new 2 TB partition capability allows for better storage management in field conditions.
- Gamers: Many games utilize external drives for storage. Larger FAT32 partitions provide room for multiple large game installations.
- Small Businesses: Companies relying on external backup drives for data redundancy now have the advantage of larger partition sizes.
First-Hand Experience: Formatting a Drive with FAT32
In an experiment, a technology enthusiast attempted to format a 1 TB external SSD using the new FAT32 command line feature in Windows 11 Insider Build 27686. The process was straightforward:
- Upon connecting the SSD, the user launched Command Prompt in administrator mode.
- They entered the format syntax with the appropriate drive letter.
- The SSD was formatted successfully to FAT32, allowing for seamless transfer of files larger than 4 GB for new projects.
The user found that utilizing FAT32 provided necessary compatibility when transferring files across various devices, highlighting the continued relevance of this file system despite its age.
Potential Limitations to Consider
While the advancements of FAT32 are promising, it’s essential to consider certain limitations:
- File Size Limitation: Individual files cannot exceed 4 GB, which may be a drawback for handling high-definition videos or large software applications.
- Fragmentation: FAT32 can suffer from fragmentation issues over time, which may slow down file access.
- Security Features: Unlike more modern file systems, FAT32 lacks certain built-in security features that can protect files from unauthorized access.
