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Extending a volume to include unallocated space that is not contiguous with the volume

Kaplan, Andrew H 166 Reputation points
2025-11-21T16:34:15.17+00:00

We have a Windows 2022 Standard server using the Desktop Experience running as a virtual machine in a Vmware cluster. The server has one volume, C:, as part of its configuration. The size of the virtual machine was initially 250 gigabytes, and it was recently expanded to 300 gigabytes.

The newly available 50 gigabytes are listed on the disk. However, this unallocated space is separated from the C: volume by the recovery partition. I have enclosed a screenshot of the current layout.

Screenshot 2025-11-21 113036

Is there a way to extend the C: volume to include the unallocated space?

Windows for business | Windows Server | Devices and deployment | Other
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  1. Jason Nguyen Tran 4,870 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-11-21T17:40:24.9+00:00

    Hello Kaplan, Andrew H,

    As I can see the issue: the 50 GB of unallocated space is indeed isolated from the C: drive by the 523 MB Recovery partition, which prevents a simple extension.

    To resolve this, you will need to use a third-party partition management tool that can dynamically move partitions. While Windows Disk Management is excellent for basic tasks, it cannot move partitions to consolidate unallocated space. A reliable tool will allow you to slide the Recovery partition to the end of the disk, placing the unallocated space directly after the C: drive.

    Once the unallocated space is adjacent to the C: drive, you can then use the native "Extend Volume" feature in Windows Disk Management to add the space. Before proceeding, I strongly recommend taking a verified backup or a snapshot of the virtual machine, as any partition manipulation carries a small but inherent risk.

    This process is the standard method for addressing this specific partition layout. If these steps are helpful, please feel free to hit "Accept Answer" 😊.

    Jason.

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