1 Topic by Goosey (edited by Goosey 2009-01-11 22:42:08)

  • Goosey
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Topic: Error resizing primary NTFS partition: Partition Still in use

Hello,

I am using the newest version of GParted live CD as available on post date. I am attempting to resize my primary NTFS partition.

This is the boot partition for Windows XP. This is the only partition on the device. This partition takes the entire size of the device, except for the small sliver of unallocated space Windows XP always leaves. I am shrinking it to make room for a Windows 7 beta partition.

I have no issues with GParted until it tries to do the 'actual' resizing (the test step that preceeds passes). The error is along the lines of "This partition is in use, resizing may cause damage, this program will not resize the partition".

I have searched this forum and attempted the most common suggested solution of running CHKDISK, but this did not resolve the issue.

Any help is appreciated. Thanks

2 Reply by class413

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Re: Error resizing primary NTFS partition: Partition Still in use

You can try the same checks from the safe mode boot.

Try to perform the resizing operation in several smaller steps. Be sure to leave at least 15-20% of free space in the ntfs partition.

In addition, be sure to run defrag at least 2 times. Try to deactivate any always running software like antivirus, as well as virtual memory (swap) function.

Sometimes very big files (multi-100 MB or GB files) can prevent ntfsresize to run. So, try to temporarily move any such files elsewhere.

*** It is highly recommended to backup any important files before doing resize/move operations. ***

3 Reply by Goosey

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Re: Error resizing primary NTFS partition: Partition Still in use

Thanks for the advice class413,

I tried these steps closely, but still had no luck. GParted (or rather, ntfsresize) still errors out saying that the partition is in use.

I was able to use GParted to resize a partition on another drive, so I know this is an issue local to that partition. Is there any special precautions I must take with boot partitions?

Thanks,