The EFI system partition or ESP is a partition on a data storage device that is used by computers adhering to the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface. When a computer is booted, UEFI firmware loads files stored on the ESP to start installed operating systems and various utilities.

Is it safe to delete EFI system partition?

That's why the EFI system partition is usually locked and protected by the Windows operating system against any potential accidental deletion. Therefore, you cannot see the EFI partition in Windows File Explorer unless you open the Disk Management. In one word, deleting an EFI partition is risky.

Do you need EFI system partition?

1 Answer. Yes, a separate EFI partition (FAT32 formated) small partition is always required if using UEFI mode. ~300MB should be enough for multi-boot but ~550MB is preferable. The ESP - EFI System Partiton - should not be confused with /boot (not required for most Ubuntu installations) and is a standard requirement.