Why You Should Care About Computer Defrag

Every time you use your computer, changes occur on the hard drive. Eventually, you may notice the system becomes slower and slower. You might sense a hesitation between operations, such as keystrokes or when opening a file. Computer defragmentation can solve many of these problems and can even potentially prevent a complete system crash. A general overview of how files fragment in the first place will provide an understanding of the importance of defragmentation.

The Basics of File Fragmentation

Hard drives place saved information into clusters. Imagine a single cabinet full of cubbyholes. Each document you create or software program you load may end up in sequential cubbies. On the other hand, information may go into random slots left empty by bits of deleted information. Your computer will find the first available slots, but if a file is too large, it will overflow into other open cubbies. This is called fragmentation. Parts of a file are not necessarily next to each other - or even in the same cluster.
 
Over time, these bits and pieces that comprise a single document become widely separated across several clusters, especially if the files are large. Computers are extremely efficient at pulling these pieces together. However, as thousands of documents, programs, e-mails and other information competes for space, the cubbies become even more disorganized. That means it takes more time to locate each segment when you reopen a document.

Why You Should Care About Defragmentation

Fragmentation of files is a normal occurrence. By nature of computer design, it's unpreventable. Now, it's time to look at ways to reorganize this information. When the information in cubbies is again in sequence, you'll spend less time waiting for information to load and enjoy overall faster operation. For business and home offices, slow computers can create a downturn in productivity, making defragmenting even more of a critical issue.
 
If you think that you don't want to bother with defragmenting your computer, consider:
  • a consistently clean hard drive extends the life of your computer
  • faster computer processing speed saves time
  • for business users, more efficient computers mean a more efficient workplace
  • longer-lasting computers means less e-waste.

Defining Defragmentation

Defragmentation is the process of finding related pieces of information across all clusters and reassembling them closer together. Even more importantly, defrag programs can detect how each file is put together, so files are not corrupted in the organization process. Other terms you might see are "defragging," or simply "defrag."
 
You have several options to defrag your computer. Your PC likely has a built-in defragging feature, but this sometimes performs an incomplete defrag. Comprehensive defrag programs are available for a small fee online, and they have many additional features, including automatic defragging and customer support.
 
Note that Macintosh machines and Linux operating systems are less prone to fragmentation. In fact, it's rarely necessary to defrag a Mac computer. Always check the system manual before running defrag software.

What Happens When You Don't Defrag

Several bad things start to happen when file and free space fragmentation propagate on a system:
  • file reads slow down since the files are in lots of fragments
  • file writing slows down, since the free space is in lots of fragments
  • re-fragmentation of files increases since the free space is in lots of fragments
  • system boot time increases
  • application launch times increase
  • useful disk space is minimized
  • backups take longer
  • anti-virus scans take longer
  • overall system performance is sluggish.
    At the very worst, a complete hard disk reformatting and Windows reinstallation may resolve issues. That means all files are lost unless they're on backup disks or a separate drive. Individuals who are unaware of defragmentation benefits often purchase a new computer.

    The Importance of Using Defrag Software

    Windows systems include built-in defragmentation software. This is a basic program which often draws criticism for its lack of sophistication. Many experts recommend the use of third-party programs to keep computers running smoothly and efficiently. Defragmentation software reviews abound, making it easy to compare the features and reliability among brands.
     
    With a third-party program, you'll receive many side benefits in addition to enhanced speed.
    • Boot defrags run upon startup and can reallocate files that normally are unavailable when the system is in operation.
    • File allocation means the software can detect which files are in frequent use and can then place them in easily retrievable spaces.
    • Free space defragmentation organizes unused slots and reduces the frequent need to run defrag software.
    • Software exists for both individual and networked systems of any size.
    • Third-party programs often run seamlessly and are generally faster than built-in free software.
    Overall, light computer users may notice little difference in performance over time. However, as files, downloads and software programs become larger, systems may continue to experience an increase in fragmentation problems. Prevention is preferable, but a noticeable slowdown is easy enough to correct. Defragmentation software can make a difference in the health of your computer.
     
    Resources
     
    Cook, D. (n.d.). Troubleshooting disk defragmenter. Retrieved March 1, 2009, from the Practical PC Web site: http://www.practicalpc.co.uk/computing/windows/defragtips.htm.

    Dettwiler, J. (2009). Fragmentation 101. Retrieved March 1, 2009, from the Icehouse Web site: http://www.icehouse.net/jim_d/defrag.html.

    Speed-up-your-slow-computer.com (n.d.). A disk defrag can dramatically speed up your computer's performance. Retrieved March 1, 2009, from the Speed-up-your-slow-computer Web site: http://www.speed-up-your-slow-computer.com/disk-defrag.html.

    Support.apple.com (2008). About disk optimization with Mac OS X. Retrieved March 1, 2009, from the Apple, Inc. Web site: http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1375?viewlocale=en_US.

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