Windows 10: Installing Microsoft Store apps onto a secondary hard drive which already has data on it

Having recently upgraded my PC, I'm looking to use a large hard drive I was already using for games to install new ones from Gamepass etc fresh Windows on my primary ssd though. However, whenever I try to install anything from the Microsoft Store and direct it to that secondary drive it says I need to set it as the new install location.

My worry is that when trying to do that it states:



I'm worried this means deleting everything already existing on the drive, which I don't want to do since I have important stuff on it or just things I don't want to redownload/install.

In this case do apps mean ones specific from the Microsoft Store I had from my previous PC build, or everything that's on that disk?

I can't install games like MCC onto my primary drive due to lack of space, so is there a way to install games onto my secondary drive without deleting things I want to keep? I don't remember having this issue on my past build so I'm not quite sure what's happening?

:)

 

Windows 10 1909 Causes Secondary Hard Drive to not be Recognized

Installing the Windows 10 1909 Update causes my secondary hard drive to not be recognized.

Steps to confirm issue:

• Secondary drive not visible in Windows Explorer
• Secondary drive not visible in device manager
• Secondary drive not visible in disk manager

Steps to replicate issue:

• Installing 1909 update

Steps to resolve issue:

• Uninstall 1909 update

Since updates can only be delayed for so long, an actual fix would be appreciated.

 

apps not working on secondary drive

Hi Lomavista,

Please answer these questions to assist you better.

• Do you get any error message?
• Which apps are you referring to?

Follow the steps below and check if that helps.

Step 1: Install all app updates from Windows Store.

Check for updates for apps and games from Windows Store

Step 2: I suggest you to download and run the app troubleshooter from the below link and check if it helps.

Run the Windows App Troubleshooter

Do let us know if you are able to use all apps from secondary drive. Thank you.

 

Windows Store install location can't be set to second drive after it's recovery?

Hi,

I realize the inconvenience you have experienced with the Secondary drive. I will certainly help you.

The possible cause for this might be if the secondary hard drive loses its letter/ path.

I suggest you to perform Check Disk on second drive by the steps given below and check if it helps.

• Press Windows + X on your keyboard.
• Select Command Prompt (Admin). Type the below command.
• Chkdsk [drive letter]: /f /r

Please refer to the below link and check if it helps:

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/13765/windows-store-why-cant-find-install-app

Kindly update us on the issue to assist you further.

Thank You.