Defragment SSD: does that make sense?

If you want to defragment not only your HDD but also SSD hard drives, you should first know how sensible that is at all. We'll tell you.

Defragmenting the SSD hard drive - does that make sense?

A common HDD hard drive has a read and write head. This always moves back and forth to find the required data in your places. The data is always stored where there is space. Defragmenting sorts the data again.

• Defragmenting not only makes the hard drive faster, but also increases the service life due to less wear and tear. An SSD hard drive does not have such a read and write head at all, so defragmentation is pointless.
• The data is stored on memory chips that can be called up much faster. Defragmenting would sort the data, but it won't get it faster. Since numerous write operations are carried out during defragmentation, the hard disk wears out faster. Frequent defragmentation would reduce the lifespan of the SSD.

Windows: Disable defragmentation of the SSD

Under Windows 8, defragmentation of SSD hard drives is automatically deactivated. However, this incorrect setting can occur on older operating systems. Even if you have assembled your computer yourself, you should check the facts.

1. Press the [Windows] and [E] keys simultaneously so that the Explorer opens.
2. Right click on the SSD and select the "Properties".
3. Go to the "Tools" tab above and click the "Defragment Now" or "Optimize" button.
4. Click on the "Change settings" and "Select" button, or on Windows 7 and Vista on "Configure schedule" and "Select disk".
5. Check whether your SSD is deactivated here and then close the windows again.

Read more: Why an SSD can improve your device

In the next practical tip, we will show you how to optimize your SSD hard drive under Windows.