Move Programs Between Hard Drives: Full Guide

Updated 6 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

Yes, you can move installed programs between hard drives, and the method depends on whether it’s a traditional desktop app, a Microsoft Store app, or a portable app. This article explains the three main ways to do it, how to choose the right one, and what to watch out for.

Why Move Programs at All?

Moving programs is usually about freeing up space on a small SSD (system drive) or moving games to a larger HDD. An SSD makes programs load faster, but HDDs offer more storage per dollar. Sometimes you simply want to organize files: keep the OS and essential apps on the fast drive, put large games and rarely used software on the bulk storage drive.

Another common reason is upgrading to a new drive. Instead of reinstalling everything, you can move the program files and keep your settings and saved data.

Method 1: Use Built-in Move Feature (Windows Settings)

Windows 10 and 11 include a built-in move feature for apps installed from the Microsoft Store (UWP apps) and some traditional desktop apps that are registered as “apps� in Settings.

Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps (or Apps & features on older versions).
Find the app you want to move, click the three-dot menu (or the app name), and select Move.
Choose the destination drive from the drop-down list, then click Move.

This method only works if the app supports it. Many classic Win32 programs (like most Adobe or Office apps) do not show the Move button. If you don’t see it, you’ll need one of the other methods.

Method 2: Steam and Other Game Launchers

Game platforms like Steam, Epic Games Launcher, and Battle.net have their own built-in move/transfer tools. This is the safest way to move games because the launcher updates all file paths and registry entries automatically.

For Steam:

Open Steam and go to Settings > Storage (or Steam > Settings > Downloads > Steam Library Folders).
Add the new drive as a library folder.
Right-click the game in your library, select Properties > Installed Files > Move Install Folder, and pick the new drive.

For Epic Games Launcher, you can use the “Move� option in the game’s settings menu. Other launchers have similar features—look for “Move� or “Transfer� in the game’s properties.

Method 3: Manual Copy + Symbolic Link (Junction)

For traditional desktop apps that don’t have a move option, you can manually cut and paste the program folder to the new drive, then create a symbolic link (also called a junction) in the original location. This makes Windows and the program think the files are still where they were, while actually they’re on the new drive.

Close the program completely.
Cut the entire program folder (e.g., C:\Program Files\MyApp) and paste it to the new drive (e.g., D:\Programs\MyApp).
Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Type: mklink /J "C:\Program Files\MyApp" "D:\Programs\MyApp" and press Enter.

This creates a junction that points to the new location. The program will run normally, but be aware that some programs with strict anti-cheat or DRM may not work with junctions. Also, Windows updates may occasionally break the link.

What About the Registry and Shortcuts?

When you move a program manually, the registry entries and Start Menu shortcuts still point to the old path. The symbolic link method solves this by making the old path still valid. If you move the folder without creating a link, the program will likely fail to launch or show errors.

If you use a dedicated mover tool (like Steam Mover or a paid tool like Move-Azure), they automate the junction creation. For most users, the built-in Windows move or the launcher’s move is safer and simpler.

Common Problems and Mistakes

Moving to a drive with less space: Always check the destination drive has enough free space for the program and its future updates.
Moving while the program is running: Close the program completely, including background processes (check the system tray).
Not creating a junction: If you just cut and paste without a link, the program won’t work.
Moving system components: Don’t move drivers, antivirus, or system files—they must stay on the system drive.
External drives: Moving to an external USB drive may cause issues if the drive is unplugged. It’s generally not recommended for installed programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I move a program from C: to D: without reinstalling?

Yes, if the program supports it (via Windows Settings or a launcher) or if you use the junction method. For most games on Steam/Epic, the launcher’s move feature works perfectly. For other apps, the junction method is the most reliable manual approach.

Will moving a program break its shortcuts?

If you use the built-in move or a launcher, shortcuts are updated automatically. If you manually move and create a junction, shortcuts still work because the original path is valid. If you manually move without a junction, shortcuts will break.

Is it safe to move a program to an external hard drive?

It’s not recommended. External drives can be disconnected, which will cause the program to crash or fail to start. Some programs may work, but you risk data loss or corruption. Use an internal drive for installed programs.

What is the difference between moving and copying a program?

Moving transfers the files and removes them from the source. Copying duplicates them, leaving the original in place. For moving a program, you want to move, not copy, unless you intend to have two installations (which is often not allowed by the license).

Why can’t I move some apps in Windows Settings?

The Move button only appears for apps that are registered as “movable� by the developer. Many classic desktop apps don’t support it. For those, use the launcher method or manual junction.

Does moving a program affect its saved data or settings?

Usually no, because saved data is often stored in the AppData folder or the user’s Documents folder, not in the program directory. However, some portable apps store data in their own folder, so be sure to move that folder as well.

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.