How to Clean Fragmented Files

File fragmentation is typical for all operating systems. It occurs when chunks of data that belong to the same file are stored randomly on a hard drive rather than in a contiguous manner. File fragmentation reduces system performance. Windows XP/Vista has a system tool that allows you to physically organize the content of a hard drive and hence, to fix or clean fragmented files.

Instructions

1. Click "Start" in the lower-left corner of the screen.

2. Open the "All Programs" list.

3. Scroll down the program list and find "Accessories" folder. Click on it to open.

4. Locate the "System Tools" folder and open it.

5. Click on "Disk Defragmenter" to start the program.

6. Click on the "Defragment Now " button in Windows Vista and select the disk you wish to defragment. Click "OK" to start. In Windows XP, click on the disk and on the "Defragment" button.

Tips & Warnings

• Disk defragmentation may take several hours to complete.

References

• Windows Vista Inside Out, Deluxe Edition; E. Bott, C. Siechert and C. Stinson; Microsoft Press, June 8, 2008