How to Change the Cluster Size From 4K to 64K Without Data Loss
Microsoft Windows does not come with the software necessary to resize partition clusters without formatting the hard drive. Unfortunately, formatting the hard drive would mean a loss of all information on your computer. There are several products that give you the ability to change cluster size, including GParted, Acronis Disk Director and Partition Magic. Changing the clusters from 4k to 64k will mean that you are wasting more disk space, especially on smaller files. It also means that you can use larger hard disk drives.
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Instructions
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Purchase and download a partition managing software package.
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Burn a copy of the software to a CD. The computer will need to boot from the CD in order to have access to the partition at the level required to change the cluster size. This cannot be done while the operating system on the partition is in use.
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Reboot the computer with the CD inside the disk tray. Select "Boot from the CD" when the option is presented.
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Convert the partition. Usually when you are increasing the cluster size, you will be increasing the partition at the same time. Use the software to increase the partition and select to convert to 64k at the same time. If the partition is over 2 terabytes in size, the software will automatically convert the information to 64k out of necessity.
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Tips & Warnings
Clone or back-up your hard disk prior to doing anything to the partition. Changing partition information can often destroy all of the information on the hard drive, including the operating system.
