FAQ
TL;DR: In Windows, 0 software tweaks reliably convert a USB‑attached SSD into “Local Disk”; “The removable disk will remain removable.” Choose internal SATA/NVMe or accept Removable status. [Elektroda, Robert B, post #16768058]
Why it matters: This helps SanDisk Extreme 120GB owners and Windows Live Mail users decide between hardware changes, risky hacks, or returning the drive.
Quick Facts
- Windows labels USB‑attached storage as Removable; “Local Disk” is for internally attached drives. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16761865]
- Software reclassification isn’t supported; attaching the SSD internally changes it to Local Disk, but may void warranty. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16761865]
- “You won’t change it programmatically.” This reflects the thread’s expert guidance. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16764813]
- Some USB controllers can be flashed to present as fixed, but results vary and risks exist. *USB hack: turn a USB stick into a hard drive or local disk*
- Windows Live Mail stores mail only on Local Disks, which drove the original request. [Elektroda, julitaaa, post #16761063]
How do I change a USB drive to a Local Disk in Windows?
You can’t do this with a setting or registry edit. Windows marks USB‑attached storage as Removable and internal SATA/NVMe as Local. To appear as Local, connect the SSD directly to the motherboard, which may require removing the USB enclosure. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16761865]
Why does my SanDisk Extreme 120GB SSD show up as Removable?
Windows identifies the transport, not the brand. Because the SSD is attached over USB, the OS flags it as a Removable device. The “Local Disk” label is reserved for internally attached drives detected on interfaces like SATA/NVMe. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16761865]
Is there a software or registry trick to flip a USB drive to Local?
No supported software method exists. Forum experts were clear: “You won’t change it programmatically.” Any change would require hardware-level alteration or internal connection, not a Windows setting. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16764813]
Can firmware tools make a USB SSD appear as a fixed (Local) disk?
Some USB bridge or flash controllers support a flip bit that reports as fixed, but success is controller‑specific and risky. Guides exist for certain sticks; outcome isn’t guaranteed for SSD enclosures. Proceed only if you accept potential data loss. USB hack: turn a USB stick into a hard drive or local disk
Will opening the USB enclosure to connect SATA void my warranty?
Yes, removing the drive from its USB enclosure can void the product warranty. The forum advised internal connection as a technical fix, while warning about warranty implications. Consider buying a plain internal SSD if Local is a hard requirement. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16761865]
Can I store Windows Live Mail on an external USB SSD?
The OP’s constraint was that Windows Live saves only to Local Disks. Because USB storage is Removable, the app refuses that target. If the app is non‑negotiable, use an internal SSD or back up the mail store elsewhere. [Elektroda, julitaaa, post #16761063]
What quick checks prove the drive works even if it’s Removable?
Create a partition, format it, and copy files to verify performance and stability. The drive’s Removable label doesn’t block file operations or backups; it only affects apps that demand Local Disks. [Elektroda, Kasek21, post #16761008]
Is exchanging the drive smarter than attempting hacks?
Yes, if your workflow requires a Local Disk. The OP considered return/exchange within a 30‑day window and eventually kept the drive without hacking. That 30‑day statistic reflects a practical decision point. [Elektroda, julitaaa, post #16768841]
How do I reduce risk if I still try a flip‑bit utility?
- Create a system restore point.
- Back up all data from the USB SSD.
- Test the tool on a non‑critical device first.
“Create a system restore point before changes.” [Elektroda, Kolobos, post #16769001]
Why does my Seagate Slim external drive disconnect randomly?
The OP reported intermittent disconnects on a Seagate Slim Portable Drive, which motivated the SSD purchase. Such behavior can stem from cable, power, or controller issues. Swapping cables or ports may help, but it’s a known edge case. [Elektroda, julitaaa, post #16764749]
Can local repair shops (e.g., Atrax in Szczecin) reclassify the drive?
The OP contacted specialists in Atrax, Szczecin, and they didn’t have a software solution. That aligns with the technical limitation: Windows bases the label on connection type, not serviceable settings. [Elektroda, julitaaa, post #16760999]
What outcome did the original poster choose?
They chose not to modify the drive. Their plan was to avoid Windows clutter on the SSD and back up mail more often, accepting the Removable designation. [Elektroda, julitaaa, post #16771848]
