Defragmenters are software tools or utilities that inverse the process of hard disk fragmentation, which is the process by which the data stored on the hard disk is split into pieces and scattered all over the hard disk. This is not usually a problem on a freshly installed PC; however it usually becomes a problem over time. The more files you copy, move around and delete from your hard disk, the more your hard disk becomes fragmented.
Unfortunately most users do not know this fact and never run any disk defragmenters during the lifetime of their PC. They only know that their PC is slowing down over time; however they have no idea that some of the causes of PC slowdowns are related to fragmentation. Most users don't even know that Windows comes with a completely free tool, rightly called "Disk Defragmenter". On the other hand there are many other users that know about fragmentation but do not believe that it is a good practice to defragment your hard disk on a regular basis.
Windows operating systems partitions are much more prone to fragmentation than Linux partitions. So Linux machines do not usually include any defragmenters. It is also recommended not to use FAT partitions on Windows machines since FAT partitions are more prone to fragmentation than NTFS partitions.
To access the free Windows defragmenter go to Start | All Programs | Accessories | System Tools | Disk Defragmenter. Then click the "Analyze" button. If the program reports that you should defragment your hard disk go ahead and press the "Defragment" button. Disk Defragmenter will warn you if you have less than 15% of free hard disk space. Such a tool needs sufficient free space to reorganize your files, so it is strongly recommended that you provide this free space or otherwise it cannot operate efficiently.
The free Windows Defragmenter does a fairly decent job. And if you don't like this free tool you can find other decent defragmenters that can be downloaded for free. Unfortunately these free tools are still miles away from being as efficient as some paid defragmenters. For more information on fragmentation and more information on free / paid defragmenters please visit PC Problem Site:
| James is the the owner of PC Problem Site PC Problem Site provides info on essential PC software: antispyware programs, backup programs, defragmenters, registry cleaners, firewalls and antivirus programs. James has a B.Sc. (Hons.) degree in Information Technology and works as an IT manager on a full time basis. |
1 comment:
Regular drive maintenance can go a long way in maintaining PC speed.Its is very important to keep the HDD clean and fast. You have to run diskcleanup and at regular intervals check if its fragmented using the analysis option. A highly fragmented drive spreads the slowdown disease, initially its sluggish and then even programs open slow.
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