How to Create and Use a Virtual Disk in Windows 11

How to Create and Use a Virtual Disk in Windows 11

Virtual disks are an amazing and useful feature in Windows. If you’ve never used one before, it’s time to give it a try! A virtual disk acts like a real hard drive, but it’s actually just a file stored on your computer. It can be used to store files, back up data, or even move data between PCs easily.

What is a Virtual Disk?

A virtual disk (VHD or VHDX) is a file that behaves like a real hard drive. You can open it, copy files to it, or even use it for backups. The VHDX format is the newer version—it supports up to 64TB of storage and is more stable, even if your PC crashes.

How to Create a Virtual Disk in Windows 11

There are two ways to create a virtual disk:

1. Using Settings (Modern Method)

1. Open Settings → System → Storage.

2. Click on Advanced Storage Settings → Disks and Volumes.

3. At the top, click Create VHD.

4. Choose a name, location, and size (for example, 100 GB).

5. Select the VHDX format and set the disk type to Dynamic.

6. Click Create, then confirm and initialize the disk.

7. Assign a drive letter and format it.

8. You’ll now see the new virtual disk in File Explorer under “This PC.”

2. Using Disk Management Tool (Classic Method)

1. Right-click on the Start menu and select Disk Management.

2. In the menu bar, click Action → Create VHD.

3. Follow the same steps to set the location, size, and format.

How to Use a Virtual Disk

Once created, your virtual disk works like any other drive. You can:

• Store files and folders.

• Use it for backups or system images.

• Move it between computers.

• Upload it to OneDrive or Google Drive.

If you eject the virtual disk, it disappears from “This PC.” To access it again, right-click the VHD/VHDX file and choose Mount.

Why Virtual Disks Are Useful

• Portable: You can copy and move them like any file.

• Secure: Use BitLocker to encrypt the disk with a password.

• Backup-Friendly: Great for storing system images or backups.

• Cloud-Ready: Upload to cloud storage to access anywhere.

Bonus Tip: Encrypt Your Virtual Disk

You can add an extra layer of security using BitLocker:

1. Mount the virtual disk.

2. Right-click on it and select Turn on BitLocker.

3. Set a password and save the recovery key.

4. Once encrypted, you’ll need the password to unlock it again.

Final Thoughts

A virtual disk is like having a portable hard drive stored on your PC. It’s flexible, secure, and perfect for organizing or protecting your data. Whether you’re backing up files, testing setups, or just exploring Windows 11’s advanced features—virtual disks are worth trying!

I’ve also made a video on this topic — you can watch it below.

Check out my other posts, I post useful tutorials and tech tips, maybe you will find something useful 😉.