what is the difference between ntfs & fat32?

Answer 1

In short,
FAT32 is more limited in how many files on can exist on the drive, cannot have file more 4 GB, and has NO security abilities.

See this table:
http://www.ntfs.com/ntfs_vs_fat.htm

Answer 2

Operationally, the difference between fat32 and ntfs is (as described in another answer provided) that ntfs allows for larger file size (greater than 4GB) and that it allows more security as you can set separate rights for users based on directory or even at the file level.
Regarding the operating system in use, Windows XP will run on a fat32 partition or ntfs. If you are planning a multi-boot system or might someday need to access a drive from a Windows 95/98/ME installation you should use fat32. Otherwise it is normally recommended (though not required) to go with ntfs to provide the additional security.

Answer 3

What is the difference between FAT, FAT32, and NTFS?

FAT, FAT32, and NTFS are file formats for arranging files on the hard drive so that these files can be accessed. NTFS is the newer and considered to be the better system.

The FAT (file allocation table) was originally intended to format floppy disks to store Microsoft Disk Basic (circa 1977). FAT was later adapted to hard drives and has been upgraded over the years.

FAT (aka FAT16) cannot work with hard drive space greater than 2 gigabytes and was last used in Windows 95.

Microsoft debuted FAT32 in 1996. FAT32 can deal with hard drives up to 2 terabytes. FAT32 does not allow you to encrypt files.

NTFS (New Technology File System) was introduced with WindowsNT and can also tackle 2 terabyte hard drives. There is no limitation on file size. NTFS does allow you to encrypt files.

In Windows XP, use NTFS. You can convert to NTFS from FAT32. Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, Command Prompt. In the Command Prompt, you will notice the flashing insertion point. Type “convert C: /fs:ntfs” (without the quotation marks) in the window. Press Enter (assuming that your hard drive is C:; if the hard drive is designated by another letter, use that instead).

There is one exception: if you have partitioned your hard drive and, say, one partition is running XP and another partition is using Windows 98, use FAT32—both systems will have to access the same files. Windows 98 cannot read NTFS.

Answer 4

when u want to setup windows xp u have to make the format fat32 coz if u choosed ntfs the partition u used will disappeare in the windows xp

Answer 5

These files systems format a HDD into 2 different size partitions. The type/size of files you tend to store make a difference as to which file system to use.