What is defragmentation, and how can it help your computer’s performance?

Sometimes referred to as “defrag” or “defragging”, defragmentation is a process involving rearranging data on storage solutions like hard disk drives for more efficient access and storage.

The benefits of defragmenting your hard drive include improving your laptop or desktop computer’s speed and performance.

Over time, disks become defragmented. Data files are divided, and their parts become stored in different areas of the disk. When this happens, fragmentation occurs, and slows down how a computer operates. Defragmentation can help resolve such issues.

How does defragmentation work?

To decrease fragmentation, disk optimisation tools typically use compaction that can make room, creating larger areas of storage space. Specific disk defragmentation tools may also try to group and collect smaller files, especially files that are usually accessed sequentially.

Another type of defragmentation is hard drive defragging. This approach is respected as a reliable way to help computers work better. However, many users overlook this option or actively avoid it, as the process can be time-consuming. However, if it is carried out regularly, defragging takes less time when performed again.

How to defrag a disk

Windows includes a defrag app. It can be located by simply typing the word “defrag” in your search bar next to the Windows icon on your screen. Next, you’ll want to click on the section “Defragment and Optimise Drives”, and you can select the drives you want to defrag before clicking “Optimise”. The disk will now be defragged.

Is it good to defrag your computer?

Fragmentation causes your computer’s hard disk to do additional work that can seriously slow down how your device operates.

Portable storage devices like USB flash drives can also fall victim to fragmentation. Windows Disk Defragmenter is designed to rearrange the fragmented data on portable drives and disks, making it easier for users to work efficiently. As a result, defragging your computer is a worthwhile use of your time.

While Disk Defragmenter operates on a schedule, users can also analyse and defragment their drives and disks manually.

How long does defrag take?

Depending on the degree and size of fragmentation on your computer’s hard disk, it can take as little as a few minutes to several hours to complete. The good news is that you’ll still be able to use your computer during the defrag process.

What happens if you don’t defrag your computer?

Defragging your devices and drives can both prevent and resolve many issues. As a result, when users don’t regularly defrag them, their equipment may run more slowly, or take far longer to start up when it’s turned on.

How often do I need to defrag my computer?

For most users, defragmenting around once a month is often enough. However, for those who use their computer intensively, defragging more regularly is advised. This also applies to users who find that their computer is running more slowly.

Bi-monthly defragmentation can be a better option. If you’re unsure whether it’s time for defragmentation, as a rule of thumb, if your disk becomes more than 10 per cent fragmented, a defrag is advised.

In Windows 7, 8 and 10, you can also schedule defragmentation to occur as often as required. Check your operating system’s defrag desktop program to assess how and when it is scheduled to run next, and adjust it as necessary to suit your individual needs.

Defragmentation and SSDs

Although defragmenting can help to keep your computer’s hard drive in top shape, it can’t help to optimise solid-state drives (SSDs).
Welcome news is that if your computer is using a Windows 7, 8 or 10 operating system (OS), it can identify when an SSD is in place, and won’t try to run a traditional defragmenting process. Instead, it will likely run an “optimisation” to enhance SSD performance.

For help speeding up your company computers, you can rely on 127 Solutions for expert IT support. Call us now to explore the packages we provide.