Merging partitions

[KEEMSTAR]

I am trying to merge partitions as one of them is a recovery drive that i don't want but in the disk management there is another partition in between the two so i can't merge them anyone know how to help? 

[pwn_intended]

There are tons of partitioning tools, but whatever you do, please, PLEASE back up any data you need from either partition before doing this!!!

 

My understanding: you would like to merge C and D?

The easiest way would be to delete D (after backing up anything you need), then delete the 450 MB partition, and then you should be able to extend the C partition

 

https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc771473(v=ws.11).aspx?f=255&MSPPError=-2147217396 for reference if you need.

[KEEMSTAR]

It won't let me delete the 450mb part @pwn_intended

 

[pwn_intended]

Ah, in that case you may have to use something like Acronis to do this.

 

At this point, however, my personal mantra comes in above else: When in doubt, re-format. When re-installing windows, it will ask where to install, click on advanced drive options and delete all partitions. This is, of course, if you are able to re-install. If not, use acronis true image (30 free trial) http://www.acronis.com/en-us/personal/computer-backup/

[KEEMSTAR]

Is it a risk not backing up the drive because I have nowhere to back it up to @pwn_intended

[Doramius]

If you have Win8, 8.1, or 10, the 450MB recovery partition is required.  It's used for doing a refresh of the OS without having to do a clean install.  

[pwn_intended]

3 minutes ago, KEEMSTAR said:

Is it a risk not backing up the drive because I have nowhere to back it up to @pwn_intended

Yes. Whenever you are doing any work with re-partitioning, there is always a risk of losing all your data. The only recommendation I have then is to either buy another hard drive, or to live with 2 partitions on this one.

[KEEMSTAR]

How will I be able to get around this then? @Doramius

[Doramius]

There are partitioning tools that will let you move the partitions around.  I think Partition Magic will do this.  Otherwise, you'll have to do a clean install of the OS and make sure that you don't split your primary partition.  This is a frequent issue when multiple simple volume partitions are made before the OS is installed.  The root cause is the same that causes the MBR partition to appear on a secondary drive when installing the OS while 2 drives are installed.  Doesn't happen with every machine, but it is a known issue.  Doesn't seem like M$ is planning a fix anytime soon.