On some computers, users often install more than one operating system, and this is done for various reasons - compatibility with programs, a desire to compare systems with each other, or any other options. However, it may be necessary to remove one of these systems. However, Windows protection does not allow deleting folders that it considers related to the operation of the system, including "foreign" ones belonging to the second operating system.
Necessary
- A computer running an operating system;
- a boot disk or USB stick that has a file manager that works with NTFS disks
Instructions
Step 1
Remove the "extra" version of the system from the boot menu. To do this, press the Win + R key combination to invoke the command line, enter the c: /boot.ini command in it and press Enter.
Step 2
The "Notepad" window will appear with the boot.ini file loaded into it in edit mode. Under the "operating systems" label, there are lines with the operating systems available for download. Remove the line with the name of the superfluous version. Close the file, confirming saving the changes.
Step 3
Basically, after this action, the second system will stop appearing in the selection list after turning on the computer, and will remain only as a folder on your computer's hard drive. If you are comfortable with this state, you can leave it as it is.
Step 4
If you need to delete a folder with an already inactive operating system, boot from a disk or flash drive, launch any file manager and delete the Windows folder manually. At the same time, do not confuse and do not delete the version of the operating system that you want to keep. After that, remove the bootable media from your computer and restart it.
