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My C: drive keeps downloading data even though I set data to only download on my E: drive.

Jakob Yenkosky 0 Reputation points
2026-01-23T03:52:24.17+00:00

In my storage settings in advanced options, i set data to only transfer to my E: Drive But my C: Drive keeps downloading it when the C: Drive is 100% full. I even went into my [Windows Key] + [R] and it still refused to accept it, I don't currently have admin, but am still the owner of this computer, this is on a windows 11, I cannot enjoy any games without them crashing or just stopping for like 4 minutes, and since I play Team Fortress 2 I get kicked by the time it loads, because the C: Drive is trying to download all of the data, I have a 2 Tera byte hard drive (E:) but it's not being accepted as a proper hard drive. How do I fix this? I just want to play my games, if this has anything to do with my graphics card, tell me please.

Microsoft Edge | Speed and responsiveness | Windows 11

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  1. Rodrigo Queiroz 77,500 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-01-23T04:31:04.67+00:00

    Hi, I'm Rodrigo and I will help you.
    This option you set on WIndows settings, only applies to Windows apps, not to all programs.
    You can change the Downloads folder location to E: and other user folders too the keep C: free. This can be done to the user folders (Desktop, Downloads, Documents, Pictures, Videos, Music)

    It is important to set the programs to be installed on the drive you want during its installation too.

    To change the user folder locations, first, create a folder you want to move on the E: drive. For example: Downloads.
    Now, open the File Explorer, right click the folder you want to move > Properties > Location tab > Move... > Select the folder you created on E: (DO NOT SELECT E:) > Ok. It will prompt to move the files now, select "Yes" to move or "No"and you can manually move later.

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  2. Q&A Assist
    2026-01-23T03:52:39.1233333+00:00
    AI generated content. This question contains an answer created with AI from Q&A Assist. Learn more

    It sounds like you're experiencing issues with your storage settings in Windows 11, where data is still being downloaded to your C: drive despite your preference for the E: drive. Here are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot this issue:

    1. Check Storage Settings: Go to Settings > System > Storage > Advanced Storage Settings > Where new content is saved. Ensure that all categories (like apps, documents, music, etc.) are set to save to your E: drive.
    2. Disk Cleanup: Since your C: drive is full, consider running Disk Cleanup to remove unnecessary files. Right-click on the C: drive in File Explorer, select Properties, and then click on Disk Cleanup.
    3. Check for Background Downloads: Some applications may still be configured to download data to the C: drive. Check the settings of any applications you use frequently to ensure they are set to use the E: drive.
    4. Permissions: Since you mentioned not having admin rights, some settings may not be fully accessible. If possible, try to gain administrative access to make necessary changes.
    5. Game Settings: For games like Team Fortress 2, check if the game installation path is set to the C: drive. You may need to reinstall the game on the E: drive to avoid issues with loading.
    6. Graphics Card: While the issue seems primarily related to storage, ensure that your graphics drivers are up to date, as performance issues can also stem from outdated drivers.

    If these steps do not resolve the issue, consider reaching out to Microsoft support for further assistance.

    References:

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