The Best Defragment Tools
If you've had your computer for a while, you might notice that it takes more time to access files and applications than when it was new. One reason is the way computers store data on the hard disk, which results in fragmentation of files. Microsoft came up with an application called Disk Defragmenter that is standard with the Windows operating system and tries to solve the fragmentation problem. However, other companies have developed various defragmentation tools. Three of these tools, which both users and experts alike agree are the best defrag software and have proven to work better than Windows defragmentation tool, are Diskeeper, PerfectDisk, and O&O Defrag.
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Storing Files on the Hard Disk
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The hard disk drive is divided into rings and then separated into sectors. Each sector holds bites of information. When locating the requested file, the hard disk drive looks up the ring first, and then the sector. Since these steps are not simultaneous, it takes time to find information.
Disk Fragmentation and Defragmentation
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New files or applications are stored in sequential order next to one another when the hard disk is empty for easier and faster searching. However, as time progresses, the disk fills up. Over time, when an application or a large file must be saved on the hard disk, the operating system has to find available space and saves pieces of a single file in locations scattered all over the disk. This process is called fragmentation and results in increased time to find the requested file or application.
Disk defragmentation reverses the process of fragmentation by pulling all files of an application or parts of a large file next to one another in sequential order. This brings things back how they were in the beginning, when the hard disk was empty and information could be stored without fragmenting.
Diskeeper
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Diskeeper is an efficient defragmentation tool that is capable of fixing all problems your computer has because of fragmentation. However, unlike Windows defrag, Diskeeper runs in the background and does not affect the speed of your computer, so you can keep working while your computer is getting fixed. This software is easy to use and does not need your intervention once your start the defragmentation process. Diskeeper's price range starts with $29.95 for the basic home edition (free trial is available for 30 days), while the most advanced version is $124.95, as of September 2009.
PerfectDisk
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PerfectDisk had been designed to work with large fragmented hard drives. Besides an efficient defragmentation service, it provides such features as automated defragmentation, estimated time of day when the process will be finished, and the capability to defrag only selected files. It also does not affect many of your system's resources during the process. PerfectDisk home edition starts with $29.99 and also offers a free 30-day trial, as of September 2009.
O&O Defrag
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The O&O Defrag defragmentation tool is more versatile than most defrag software. It includes five different defragmentation methods depending on what you are trying to achieve, can defrag both internal and external hard drives, is capable of automatically defragmenting new files while the system is not being used and has a well-designed user interface for ease of use. O&O Defrag was designed for business users and is offered at $49.95 on the developer's website, as of September 2009.
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