How to Defrag a Linux Dual Boot on XP
Running a dual-boot system allows you to have two independent operating systems, such as Linux and Windows, on the same computer. The problem with this setup is that if you need to access the other operating system, you need to reboot. Fortunately, there are programs you can install that can fix this. You can, for example, defrag your Linux dual-boot system while running Windows XP.
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Things You'll Need
- Computer with Internet connection
- Defragmentation software for Windows
- Ext2 IFS program
Instructions
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Download and install a defragmenter program for XP if you do not already have one. Microsoft operating systems come with a built-in program, Disk Defragmenter. There are a number of different freeware and shareware programs out there to try as well. One option is to use is Smartdefrag (see Resources below), which is freeware.
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Download the Ext2 IFS program for Windows (see References below). This is a free, open-source program that will allow your Linux ext2 fs files to be read and written by the XP operating system.
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Double-click on the installer to begin installation. You will be prompted for several program options, including whether to allow "read only" access and whether you want to enable the "large files" option. If you're not familiar with the options, it's best to leave these options on the default selections.
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Allow the program to install on your XP system.
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Open up "My Computer." You should now see your Linux ext2 fs drives in your computer.
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Right-click on your Linux drive. Select "Properties." Underneath "Tools" select, "Defragment Now."
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Defrag your Linux drives with the installed XP defragmentation program.
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Tips & Warnings
You may need to reboot for the changes to take effect on your system.
If you are unfamiliar with using Linux, you may want to install Ext2 IFS with the "read only" option, as this will prevent any changes to your Linux drive.
