![[IT애정남] Can I delete the OEM partition on my laptop SSD?](https://i0.wp.com/it.donga.com/media/__sized__/images/2024/11/19/a4c8a91abf2c4112-thumbnail-1920x1080-70.jpg?fit=%2C&ssl=1 "[IT애정남] Can I delete the OEM partition on my laptop SSD?")
[IT동아 김영우 기자] The storage device (HDD or SSD) in a laptop or desktop is divided internally into several sections called ‘Partitions’. This function is mainly used to divide one storage device into C drive (C:), D drive (D:), etc. in File Explorer. However, sometimes, even if it is a real partition, it is not displayed in File Explorer, etc. Since it is not currently in use, would it be a good idea to delete this partition and use it as storage capacity? This time, 7197hxxx asked about this. The content of the research is as follows (some of the content edited).
Partition status of the SSD mounted on the questioner’s laptop / Source = 7197hxxx
Hello. I am a subscriber to IT Love Man.
I recently bought a used LG laptop and am using it after factory reset (model number: 17ZB90Q-GP7UL). However, apart from the C drive in the auxiliary storage device (SSD) installed in the laptop, [복구 파티션]Ann, [OEM 파티션]These spaces take up between 1 and 17 GB.
When I researched about this, I found that it should never be deleted because that’s where the data needed for Windows recovery is stored, and it’s okay to delete it because it happens randomly when the computer is completely shut down (blue screen, etc.). Is it possible to find out what can and cannot be deleted just by looking at the partition name?
Storage device partition configuration, what is the role of each one?
Hello. Thank you for your interest in our article. LG Electronics’ 17ZB90Q-GP7UL laptop is equipped with a basic 12th generation processor and runs on the Windows 11 operating system.
The storage devices installed in these products are usually divided into three sections. First, there is a data partition (C drive) where various data are installed, an EFI system partition that contains data for booting the operating system, and a recovery partition (usually around 1 GB ) which is used to reset or return the system. the system to the state on a certain date.
From the bottom, HDD, SATA SSD, and NVMe SSD. Source = Envato Elements
However, in the case of finished PCs sold by PC manufacturers, known as branded PCs, there may be an ‘OEM partition’ and a recovery partition with a large additional capacity attached.
This is a partition for a special recovery solution added by the PC manufacturer, separate from the recovery solution provided by default in the Windows system. When you restore the system using the default Windows recovery solution, only the Windows operating system, device drivers, and default Windows apps are restored. Even in this state, all the basic functions of the PC can be used. Instead, specific apps provided by the PC manufacturer cannot be restored.
However, if you use the recovery solution provided by the PC manufacturer, other specific apps provided by the PC manufacturer and the desktop will also be restored. Your PC will be restored literally as it left the factory.
What happens if I delete the OEM partition?
Regarding the laptop with the questionnaire, a 17 GB recovery partition and a 1 GB OEM partition are located on the SSD, deleting these two partitions will not affect the basic use of the PC (booting, etc.), and will Windows over Basic functions such as booting are also possible using a recovery solution.
Instead, several special apps provided by LG Electronics will not be restored. If you want to use this application again, you can download it again from the website of the manufacturer, LG Electronics. However, to restore the deleted OEM partition, you need to visit an LG Electronics service center, and service fees may apply. Note that if you sell the laptop as a used product, you may get criticism from the buyer.
You can also consider using partition management software.
Even if you delete the 17GB recovery partition and the 1GB OEM partition, we recommend not to delete the 1GB recovery partition located just behind the data partition. If you delete this, you may not be able to use the recovery solution provided by Windows.
However, even if you delete the 17GB recovery partition and the 1GB OEM partition, there is a 1GB recovery partition between the data partition and 18GB of free space, which may prevent expansion of the partition data.
‘MiniAide Fat32 Formatter’ software / Source = IT Donga
In this case, ‘Partition Magic’, ‘AOMEI Partition Assistant’, or ‘Paragon Partition Manager’. Partition management software such as ‘MiniAide Fat32 Formatter’ can be of great help. Note that you can use this software to move, delete or resize partitions.
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Donga IT Reporter Kim Young-woo pengo@itdonga.com
How do hidden partitions impact the functionality and recovery options for your computer?
Welcome to World Today News. Today, we have with us two expert guests to discuss the topic of partition configuration on storage devices in laptops and desktops. Our guests are:
Guest 1: Bob Smith, a computer technician with 15 years of experience in the field
Guest 2: Jane Johnson, a software engineer who specializes in data management and storage solutions
WTN: Thank you both for joining us today. We’re here to discuss partition configuration on storage devices in laptops and desktops. Let’s start with the basics. Can you explain to our readers what a partition is and why it’s important in a storage device?
Guest 1: Sure, a partition is a way of dividing an internal storage device like a hard disk drive (HDD) or solid-state drive (SSD) into separate sections. It’s like having multiple hard drives in one physical device. Each partition behaves like a separate drive letter in File Explorer, and you can store different types of data on each one. Partitioning is important because it allows you to organize your data, optimize your storage space, and improve the performance of your computer.
Guest 2: Partitioning also makes it easier to back up and restore your data, as you don’t have to worry about accidentally deleting important files from the wrong drive. Moreover, if one partition becomes corrupted, you can still access data stored on other partitions.
WTN: Excellent points. Our readers might be curious about the partitions they see in their laptops or desktops that don’t correspond to any drive letter. Can you shed some light on these partitions and their purposes?
Guest 1: These partitions are usually related to the operating system or the manufacturer’s recovery tools. Sometimes, they are hidden from view or show up as “unallocated space.” It’s generally not a good idea to delete them unless you have a specific reason to do so. In most cases, these partitions contain important system files that are critical to your computer’s functionality.
Guest 2: That’s right. Manufacturers create these partitions to store system-related data, recovery tools, and even drivers. It’s not uncommon for branded PCs to have extra partitions for specific software or applications that aren’t available in the standard Windows installation
