> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.iodd.kr/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.iodd.kr/bootable-virtual-drive/drive-setup.md).

# Drive Setup

This guide explains how to prepare the internal disk for IODD virtual drive functions such as ISO mounting, VHD booting, and IMA floppy image use. It covers partition requirements, supported file systems, folder limits, and when to set AES256 encryption before copying virtual drive files.

## Choose your configuration

* **Virtual Drive Only:** If you only plan to use the virtual drive functions, follow the instructions below.
* **AES Encryption Only:** If you will only use hardware encryption, you can skip this section and go directly to the [Encryption Guide](/aes256-encryption-mini-pro-st-lk/encryption-guide.md).
* **Using Both (Encryption + Virtual Drive):** You **must** complete the encryption setup first. Please refer to the [Encryption Guide](/aes256-encryption-mini-pro-st-lk/encryption-guide.md) before proceeding here.

***

## Drive Structure and Requirements

To ensure the IODD virtual drive functions correctly, your internal disk must meet the following partition and format requirements:

* **Partition Style:** Must be either **GPT** or **MBR**.
* **Partition Type:** Must be a **Normal/Primary** partition.
* **File System:** Supported formats include **NTFS**, **exFAT**, or **FAT32**.
* **Partition Selection:** The location of the partition does not matter. If you have multiple partitions, you can select the one containing your ISO files by pressing and holding the **`4`** key for 3 seconds.

***

## File Management and Limitations

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Important: 32-Item Limit per Folder** To ensure the IODD can index your files correctly, the number of files or subfolders within any single directory (that contains ISO/VHD/IMA files) **must not exceed 32 items**.
{% endhint %}

#### Recommended File Tree Structure

You can bypass the 32-item limit by organizing your files into subfolders. The limit only applies to the number of items *within* a single folder, not the total number of files on the entire drive.

```
J: (IODD Internal Drive Root) (Max 32 items)
├─ _ISO (Folder for ISO images) (Max 32 items)
│   ├─ Hiren’s BootCD 15.2.iso
│   ├─ ubuntu-22.04-desktop-amd64.iso
│   ├─ Windows 11.iso
│   └─ (Up to 32 files or subfolders)
│
├─ IMA_Floppy (Max 32 items)
│   ├─ Bios_updater.ima
│   └─ MS-DOS_6.0.ima
│
├─ VHD_Files (Max 32 items)
│   ├─ Windows_10_Win2Go.vhd
│   ├─ Linux_Mint.vhd
│   └─ Subfolders (Nested folders are allowed)
│
├─ Your_Personal_Folder_01 (No limit - non-ISO path)
└─ Your_Personal_Folder_02 (No limit - non-ISO path)
```