Forum Discussion
How to change or convert mbr to gpt without data loss?
You can convert MBR to GPT using the built-in Disk Management tool.
This is a destructive conversion method that requires complete data erasure. It's suitable when:
- You're setting up a new disk
- You have complete backups of all data
- You're planning a clean Windows installation
- You don't need to preserve the existing OS installation
How to convert mbr to gpt with data loss
1. Copy all files, programs, and system data to an external drive or cloud storage Verify your backup is complete and accessible.
2. Ensure your motherboard supports UEFI firmware (most computers since 2012 do)
3. Press Win + R → Type diskmgmt.msc → Enter.
4. Right-click on the disk label (left side where it says "Disk 0," "Disk 1," etc.)
5. Select "Convert to GPT Disk".
Choose This Method When:
✅ You're installing a fresh copy of Windows
✅ You have complete, verified backups
✅ You want the cleanest possible GPT setup
✅ The mbr2gpt tool fails or isn't available
Choose Another Method When:
❌ You need to preserve existing Windows installation (use mbr2gpt.exe)
❌ You can't backup data (use third-party tools with data preservation)
❌ You're not technical (use Windows Setup automatic conversion)