What is defragmenting mean?

Question

What is it all about?

Answer 1

De-fragmenting is taking files that are stored all around your hard disk and placing them in one area.

It is like sorting out a filing cabinet...it just means putting everything where it is easier to find!

Answer 2

With the older OS like 98 or 95, when you uninstall programs, over time it leaves blank areas on your hard disk. When you run a program or need data it might take a nano second longer to get the info you requested. When you defragment all the files that belong together are put in the same area of the hard disk to speed up access.

This was a bigger deal with FAT and FAT32 now that most disks are formatted with NTFS is not really used for routine maintenance. You only need to do it if your computer (not the Internet connection) is slow.

Answer 3

Defragmenting is sort of like putting braces on your hard drive. It pulls all the files tight together and fills in the empty spaces. When you defrag your computer, it makes your computer run more efficiently. You can actually watch the empty spaces being filled in as your computer defrags. Defragging is like changing the oil in your car. It should be done at least every one-two months to maintain the viability of your computer! :)

Answer 4

To re-organize the way information is stored on a computer disk so that all of the information belonging to a file is stored in a single, contiguous area on the disk.

Its good to defragment as it helps keep your computer running efficiently. Makes it quicker for the computer to find things.


Hope that helps

Tink x

Answer 5

In the context of administering computer systems, defragmentation (or defragging) is a process that reduces the amount of fragmentation in file systems. It does this by physically reorganizing the contents of the disk in order to store the pieces of each file close together and in order (contiguously). It also attempts to create larger regions of free space using compaction to impede the return of fragmentation. Some defragmenters also try to keep smaller files within a single directory together, as they are often accessed in sequence.

Answer 6

Disk Defragmenter consolidates fragmented files and folders on your computer's hard disk, so that each occupies a single, contiguous space on the volume. As a result, your system can gain access to your files and folders and save new ones more efficiently. By consolidating your files and folders, Disk Defragmenter also consolidates the volume's free space, making it less likely that new files will be fragmented

Answer 7

When you save a large file it can get split into many parts in the hard drive. When the file is read this can slow your computer down as the drive has to jump around to find all the parts.

De-fragmenting takes the file and puts in a contiguous, single space so it can be read much faster.

For more into: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Defragmentation

Answer 8

Its all about moving files on your hard drive closer together so that when you hard disk goes to seek or whatever it needs, it wont have to search through the whole drive, instead everything will be moved in closer together, making the seek time faster

Answer 9

Just like sorting out an untidy filing cabinet, filing things in their proper order and throwing out things rarely used.

Answer 10

WHEN A FILE IS SAVED ON THE DISK, IT IS FRAGMENTED AT VARIOUS PHYSICAL LOCATIONS ON THE DISK. THIS HAS PROBLEMS AND SLOWS THE MACHINE. DE FRAGMENTATION PUTS THESE FILES TOGETHER.
MANOJ