Convertissez Windows de BIOS hérité vers UEFI et partitionnez MBR en GPT sans perte de données

Convertissez Windows de BIOS hérité vers UEFI et partitionnez MBR en GPT sans perte de données

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Understanding Legacy BIOS and UEFI
3. Benefits of Converting to UEFI
4. Preparing for the Conversion
5. Step 1: Using MBR to GPT Tool
   • 5.1 Validating the Drive
   • 5.2 Converting the Drive to GPT
6. Step 2: Changing the Firmware Settings
   • 6.1 Restarting the Computer
   • 6.2 Accessing the BIOS Setup
   • 6.3 Changing the Boot Mode to UEFI
   • 6.4 Applying and Exiting BIOS Setup
7. Verifying the Conversion
8. Converting Windows 7 to UEFI
9. Conclusion

How to Convert Windows 10 Installations from Legacy BIOS to UEFI

In this article, we will discuss how to convert Windows 10 installations from legacy BIOS to UEFI without the need to copy any data or reinstalling Windows. Converting to UEFI provides benefits such as increased speed and improved security. We will guide You through a two-step process using the built-in MBR to GPT tool provided since the Windows 10 Creators Update. So let's get started.

Introduction

When a PC is installed in legacy BIOS mode, it can only use Windows 10 in combination with the MBR (Master Boot Record) partitioning style. To convert your disk from MBR to the more advanced GPT (GUID Partition Table) style, we will use the MBR to GPT tool. This tool will also Create an EFI system partition with a size of 100 MB. The Second step involves changing the boot mode from legacy BIOS to UEFI in the firmware settings.

Understanding Legacy BIOS and UEFI

Legacy BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is the older system firmware found in most PCs. It initializes hardware during the boot process and locates the operating system to load. UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) is a modern replacement for BIOS. It provides more advanced features and better support for modern hardware. Converting to UEFI allows for faster boot times and improved security features.

Benefits of Converting to UEFI

Converting from legacy BIOS to UEFI offers several advantages. Firstly, UEFI allows for faster boot times, resulting in a quicker and more efficient startup process. Additionally, UEFI provides enhanced security features such as secure boot, which helps protect against malicious software. UEFI also supports larger drives and can handle partitions over 2TB in size. Converting to UEFI ensures compatibility with modern hardware and software.

Preparing for the Conversion

Before proceeding with the conversion, it is essential to create a backup of your data to ensure its safety. While the conversion process itself does not involve data loss, it is always recommended to take precautionary measures. Verify that you have administrative rights on your Windows 10 PC.

Step 1: Using MBR to GPT Tool

The first step involves using the MBR to GPT tool, which is provided since the Windows 10 Creators Update. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator and enter the command "MBR2GPT /convert". This command will convert your disk from MBR to GPT while shrinking the C partition to create a 100 MB partition for the EFI system.

5.1 Validating the Drive

To ensure a smooth conversion process, you can use the "/validate" switch to check if your drive is convertible to GPT. The command "MBR2GPT /validate" will display validation results.

5.2 Converting the Drive to GPT

By executing the command "MBR2GPT /convert", the conversion process will begin. If you encounter an error stating that MBR2GPT can only run in Windows PE environment, you can override it by adding the "/allowfullOS" switch to the command.

Step 2: Changing the Firmware Settings

Once the drive has been successfully converted to GPT, proceed to the second step of changing the boot mode from legacy BIOS to UEFI.

6.1 Restarting the Computer

Click on the Start button, select "Shut down or sign out," and then choose "Restart." During the restart process, you will need to access the BIOS setup.

6.2 Accessing the BIOS Setup

Continuously press the designated key (usually F2, F10, or Del) to enter the BIOS setup or boot menu. The exact key may vary depending on your PC manufacturer. Once in the BIOS setup, navigate to the boot settings.

6.3 Changing the Boot Mode to UEFI

Locate the boot sequence or boot list options in the BIOS setup. Switch the boot mode from legacy to UEFI. You should see the EFI partition as an available boot option.

6.4 Applying and Exiting BIOS Setup

Save the changes made to the boot mode by selecting "Apply" or "Save and Exit" in the BIOS setup. The computer will now boot from the UEFI partition.

Verifying the Conversion

After the system has restarted, go to the System Information settings to confirm that the BIOS mode is now set to UEFI. This verifies that the conversion from legacy BIOS to UEFI was successful.

Converting Windows 7 to UEFI

If you have Windows 7 installed and want to upgrade to Windows 10 in UEFI mode, the recommended approach is to perform an in-place upgrade of Windows 7 to Windows 10 using the Update Assistant. Once you have upgraded to Windows 10, you can use the same method described above to convert from legacy mode BIOS to UEFI.

Conclusion

Converting Windows 10 installations from legacy BIOS to UEFI is a straightforward process that offers numerous benefits. Using the MBR to GPT tool provided by Windows 10, you can convert your disk to GPT without data loss. Changing the boot mode to UEFI in the firmware settings completes the conversion. Enjoy the improved speed and security provided by UEFI on your PC. If you have any further questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below.