What Is FAT32?

Key takeaways

FAT32 is the 32-bit version of the FAT file system, which defines how data is stored and organized on a hard drive. 

• FAT32 is the file system of choice for memory cards, USB drives, and external hard drives that need to be widely compatible.

• FAT32 was standard in Windows 95 before NTFS replaced it in 1993.

• You can enhance your information technology (IT) support skills by learning more about FAT32, NTFS, and exFAT file systems.

Discover the key characteristics of FAT32, including its advantages and limitations compared to NTFS and exFAT. If you’re ready to start preparing for a role in IT support, consider pursuing Google’s IT Support Professional Certificate to develop the skills needed to perform routine IT support tasks such as computer assembly and wireless networking.

What is FAT32 used for?

FAT32 is the 32-bit version of the file allocation table (FAT) file system. A file system specifies the protocol for storing and organizing data on a hard drive with file names and certain permissions. Before the advent of the new technology file system (NTFS) in 1993, Windows operating systems like Windows 95 used FAT32 until NTFS took over when Windows NT was released. 

What systems use FAT32?

Memory cards, USB drives, and external hard drives that need wide compatibility use the FAT32 file system. It is compatible with all versions of Windows, Mac, Linux, gaming consoles, and other devices with a USB port. Individual files on a FAT32 system have a maximum size of four GB and a maximum partition size of two TB. Any drive with a size greater than 2 TB will require multiple FAT32 partitions on the drive. FAT32 drives are best used when you need maximum compatibility and have file sizes smaller than 4 GB that are needed to play on various devices.

Read more: Information Technology (IT) Terms: A to Z Glossary

Is FAT32 still being used?

Unlike the file systems before it, FAT12 and FAT16, FAT32 remains one of the common options available today. You can use this file system for up to four million files, and it has a maximum file size of four gigabytes.

FAT32 vs. NTFS vs. exFAT

Let’s compare key factors in different file systems.

Which is better, FAT32 or NTFS?

While exFAT and NTFS have larger file and partition sizes, FAT32 is still a necessary file system for USB drives and computers with operating systems not compatible with exFAT or NTFS. If you are using a Windows operating system, it is best to format your internal hard drives to NTFS. However, if you are using an external hard drive or flash drive and need storage capacities greater than four GB, use exFAT; if you need compatibility not found in exFAT, format external media to FAT32.

Related terms

• Computer engineering

• IT support specialist

• Database

• Data engineer

• Systems administrator

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