Defragmenting the hard drive

When working with files, sometimes Windows divides the file information into pieces and stores them in different places on the hard drive. This is called fragmentation, and it is normal. In order for the computer to use a file, Windows must search for the pieces of the file and put them back together. This process slows the hard drive performance.

The Disk Defragmenter program organizes the data on the drive so that each file is stored as one unit rather than as multiple pieces scattered across different areas of the drive. Defragmenting the information stored on the drive can improve hard drive performance.

While the Disk Defragmenter program is running, do not use your keyboard or mouse because using them may continuously stop and restart the defragmenting process. Also, if you are connected to a network, log off before starting Disk Defragmenter. Network communication may stop the defragmentation process and cause it to start over.

Help and For more information on defragmenting your hard drive,

Support click Start, then select Help and Support or Help.

To run Disk Defragmenter:

1In Windows XP, click Start, then select My Computer.

- OR -

In Windows Me, Windows 2000, or Windows 98, double-click the My Computer icon.

2Right-click the hard drive that you want to defragment, then select Properties. The System Properties dialog box opens.

Managing hard drive space

67