How to Reformat My Flash Drive As FAT

Reformatting a disk will remove all of the files stored on the drive.

Windows can format flash drives in the following file systems: FAT, FAT32 and NTFS. While FAT has its drawbacks--it is not as efficient at utilizing disk space as FAT32 and NTFS, nor does it support encryption or compression like NTFS--it's compatible with almost every operating system. Reformatting a disk can remove viruses or other infections, and locate and mark bad sectors. Use the "Format Removable Disk" utility in Windows to convert your USB flash drive to the FAT file system.

Instructions

1. Connect the flash drive to the USB port on the rear or side of the computer, or connect the drive to an available slot on a USB hub.

2. Click "Start." Click "Computer." Right-click the letter assigned to the removable disk. Select "Format" from the contextual menu.

3. Click the "File System" drop-down menu. Click "FAT." Click "Start" to reformat the drive.

Tips & Warnings

• Back up any files on the disk to another storage device before formatting the drive.

References

• Quick Online Tips: How to Fix Errors and Format USB Flash Drives
• Microsoft: NTFS vs. FAT: Which is Right for You?