Move folders to an external drive

Need to move folders to an external drive? Whether you're backing up files or freeing up space on your computer, here's a straightforward guide that works for both Windows 10 and 11.

What You'll Need

• Your external hard drive
• A computer running Windows 10 or 11
• A USB port

Quick Steps

1. Connect your external drive to a USB port
2. Open File Explorer (press Windows key + E)
3. Find the folder you want to move
4. Select your folder
5. Cut it (right-click → Cut, or press Ctrl + X)
6. Click on your external drive in File Explorer
7. Paste it there (right-click → Paste, or press Ctrl + V)
8. Wait until it finishes moving
9. Open the folder on your external drive to make sure everything's there

Quick Tips

• For big folders, make sure your computer won't go to sleep during the transfer
• Don't unplug your drive until everything's finished moving
• If a file is "in use," close any programs that might be using it
• Use a blue USB port if you have one - they're usually faster

Need Help?

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