Can you install applications onto a partition other then the Boot Partition?

Question

I am weighing the benefits of partitioning my Hard Drive and I have a couple quick questions. I am running Windows XP on one PC and Vista on my laptop.

On my Vista Laptop my C: drive is starting to fill up, the computer came with a D: drive partition where I store most of my data, but unfortunately I have ALOT of programs installed and my 80gig C: drive is about full.

Can I install Applications (photoshop, games, ect.) onto my D: drive partition instead of my C: drive to save space on my C: drive?

Can anyone recommend any good free or cheap partitioning programs?

Thanks!

Answer 1

You can install Applications on any partition.  The boot partition is for the OS (XP or Vista)  because when the system is booting it looks in that partiton (more that partition is on a certain place on the drive).

You can create any number of partitions.  On your laptop some makers put backup files on the D partition (Instead of sending you a backup CD).    I point this out so you realize you might have important files on there.  

Windows XP and Vista can create partition in Computer Management section (in your Control Panel)   Are you thinking of creating a NEW partition besides the D one?    I would be a little scared of creating a partition unless you have enough free space on the drive (some 40 or more gigs)  If you are not careful you could s***w up your other partitions and your computer won't boot or you loose your programs.  

Answer 2

I read it was 4 partitions for every hard disk you have inside your computer.