How to Defrag My Computer for Free

Keep your computer healthy by defragmenting regularly.

One way to help your computer run more quickly and experience fewer problems such as unresponsive programs is by defragging it regularly. While there are pricey defragmenting tools that you can download, Microsoft provides a free defragmenter in its collection of system tools. The defrag process can take several hours. Fortunately, after the initial setup, you can simply let it run through to completion.

Things You'll Need

• Windows XP, Vista or 7

Instructions

1. Click "Start" and click "My Computer" or "Computer," depending on your version of Windows.

2. Right-click "Local Disk (C:)" or any other hard disk drive that you want to defrag. Select "Properties" from the menu that appears to open the "(C:) Properties" dialog box.

3. Go to the "Tools" tab of the dialog box.

4. Click the "Defragment Now" button in the "Defragmentation" section.

5. Click "Defragment Disk." When the defrag is complete, close the "Disk Defragmenter" window and the "(C:) Properties" dialog box.

Tips & Warnings

• It's best not to have any other programs running when using Defrag. Even though some Windows versions can do it, it is not advisable. Also, it will make the defragmenting process go faster.

References

• MS Support: How to Defragment Your Disk Drive Volumes in Windows XP
• MS Support: Features of the Windows Vista Hard Disk Defragmentation Utility

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish