How can I make Windows programs use files from another drive without changing their expected folder?
Asked by
MellowCedar42
I have about 15 GB of Vital VST synth presets stored on a large secondary drive. Vital expects to find them in a specific folder on my nearly full C: drive, and I can't change that location in the program. Is there a way to leave the files on the secondary drive while making Windows and Vital behave as if they're still located in the original C: drive folder?
Answers
Use a symbolic link. You can move the actual preset folder to the secondary drive, then create a directory symbolic link at the original C: drive path that points to the new location. Programs will follow the link and generally won’t know the files are stored elsewhere. Windows can create these with the mklink command, usually from an elevated Command Prompt.
Reply to this answer
If Vital supports changing its preset location through an INI file, registry setting, or another configuration option, that would be simpler than using a link. The Windows PATH variable usually won’t help if the program is using a hardcoded folder path, so check the application’s documentation or settings first.
Reply to this answer
For a whole folder, a junction point is another good Windows option. Move the folder to the other drive, remove or rename the original folder, and create a junction at the path Vital expects. The junction redirects folder access without requiring you to change the program’s settings. Be careful to verify the target path before deleting the original folder.
Reply to this answer
Add your answer
Answers are reviewed before publication.
MellowCedar42: That sounds like exactly what I need. I’ll try setting it up once I’m back at my computer.