The Disk Defragmenter utility consolidates files so they occupy space more efficiently. The end result is that files are accessed faster, improving your computer's overall performance.
"Defragmenting" can take an hour or more, so it's best to do this when you don't need access to your computer, for example during the wee hours of the morning.
Windows 7 and Vista
- Click Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Defragmenter.
- Select the hard disk to be defragmented (usually Drive C).
- Click the Defragment disk button. If a User Account Control message appears, click Yes.
- (Optional) Repeat Step 1, and then carry out Steps 2 and 3 for other hard disks that appear in the list.
Windows XP
- Click Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Defragmenter.
- Select the hard drive to be defragmented (usually Drive C).
- Click the Defragment button.
- (Optional) Repeat Step 1, and then carry out Steps 2 and 3 for other hard disks that appear in the list.
