Defragment computers - how it works

If access to the program and files is getting slower, it only helps to defragment the computer or hard drive. We explain what is behind it and how defragmentation works on Windows.

What is defragmentation and what does it do?

Defragmentation is the reorganization of pieced files on a hard disk. This operation, which is carried out with special software, ensures that data blocks of the same file are written to the data carrier in succession and without gaps.

• Computers actually write data from end to end on the hard disk like a record.
• If the hard drive is used for a longer period of time and files are changed or deleted, gaps arise. New files are then automatically saved in these gaps.
• However, if the file is larger than such a free block, only a part will be placed there and the rest in other places. So the file is fragmented. When opening this file, the hard disk must read in two (or more) places to display the file content.
• This takes more time and makes the PC slower - as if a turntable had to keep jumping the needle from one place to another to play a song.
• When defragmenting, the computer rearranges the files on the hard drive so that they are no longer fragmented, so that they are all in a good order. As a result, the hard drive no longer has to read data packets at several locations, which speeds up the opening time and protects the hard drive.
• Caution: Unlike HDD hard drives, defragmenting SSD hard drives is more harmful than useful.

Defragment the computer with Windows XP

If you want to defragment your PC under Windows, you don't necessarily need an additional program. Windows can do it by itself. Here's how:

1. Click on "Start" and "My Computer".
2. Right-click on the desired hard disk and select "Properties" in the context menu.
3. Under the "Tools" tab, select "Defragment Now".
4. A tool then opens. Now all you have to do is click on "Defragment".

Defragment the computer with Windows 7

Under Windows 7, defragmentation works analogously to Windows XP

1. Click on "Start" and "Computer". It's quicker with the key combination [Win] + [E].
2. Right-click on the desired hard disk and select "Properties" in the context menu.
3. Under the "Tools" tab, select "Defragment Now".
4. Then all you have to do is click on "Defragment disk".

Defragment the computer with Windows 8 and 10

A defragmentation tool is also included under Windows 8 and 10:

• Press [Win] + [E] to open an Explorer window.
• Right click on any hard drive or partition under "Computer".
• Select "Properties" here and click on "Optimize" under the "Tools" tab.
• By clicking on "Analysis" Windows shows you which hard drives need to be defragmented.
• Clicking "Optimize" defragments the corresponding hard drive.
• Extra tip: You can also defragment faster. Click on "Start" and simply enter "Defragmentation" in the search line in the Start menu.

In further practical tips, we will explain how to mirror hard drives and repair the boot sector of defective hard drives.