How do I configure a data only hard drive?

[tkdand]

Hello,

I have a 500GB HD that I want to store files only (I don't wanna install any OS or make more than 1 partition).

Should I create a primary or extended partition? Should I activate the partition? TY

 

[Nothinman]

None of those really matter. The resulting partition will hold data just fine regardless of your answers to those questions.

If you think you might ever need to boot from the partition then you must make it primary and you'll want to set it active at one point but that's it.

 

[LokutusofBorg]

We're talking about Windows here, right? Just make a primary partition that takes the whole space and quick format the thing with default options and be done with it.

 

[rgallant]

just saying
if that data includes a "windows backup", the drive type has to be a "basic" not "dynamic" other wise you can't restore it.