What is the function of an extended partition?

The function of an extended partition is to utilize the remaining free space on a hard drive by allowing the creation of additional logical drives beyond the limits imposed by primary partitions. In partitioning schemes, especially in MBR (Master Boot Record), there is a restriction of having only four primary partitions. An extended partition acts as a container that can hold multiple logical drives, enabling users to make full use of available disk space.

This capability is crucial when a user needs more than four partitions; the extended partition eliminates that limitation by allowing the creation of several logical partitions within it. This way, the user can organize different types of data or applications on separate logical drives, enhancing both management and efficiency of the storage system.