How to speed up your computer: Defragmenting

Should I defragment my hard drive? What is a fragmented hard drive?

A fragmented hard drive is one where the files are stored in fragments/pieces/segments all over the hard drive instead of being stored as a single block in a single section of the drive.

(Fragmentation happens naturally/normally over time from you saving, deleting and moving files around a bit)

Is fragmentation a problem?

Yes it is.  An overly fragmented hard drive will lead to a decrease in the performance of your computer since the hard drive will have to work harder to find all the scattered segments of your files and programs before being able to open them for use.  Fragmentation will also lead to a decrease in the life span of the said hard drive.

The Cure:

Defragmenting your hard drive ensures that all your files are stored in single contiguous blocks on your hard drive which in turns reduces its workload leading to it speeding up in accessing your files.  Defragmenting the hard drive will also reduce its operational temperature and increase its life span.

Accessing the utility:

Click Start → All Programs → Accessories → System Tools → Disk Defragmenter

Now:

1. Have the utility analyze your hard drive
2. If the hard drive needs to be defragmented it would give you a message to that effect
• Choose defragment if it's recommended
• Close the utility if your hard drive is not fragmented

You may have to turn off or disable your virus protection software in some case

NB: Defragmenting SSD (Solid State Drives) WILL SHORTEN their lifespan.