How Can I Defragment a Disk in Windows Vista?

Use Disk Defragmenter in Windows Vista to defragment the hard disk.

Microsoft Windows Vista disks become fragmented as files are saved and changed in different sectors of the hard drive. When a fragmented file is loaded into memory, the computer must collect the various pieces and put them together. Defragmentation overcomes this inefficient process by reorganizing the disk so that files are stored in contiguous space as much as possible. Defragmenting can improve performance. Use the built-in Disk Defragmenter utility to defragment a Windows Vista disk.

Instructions

1. Click the "Start" button, "All Programs," "Accessories," "System Tools," then "Disk Defragmenter."

2. Enter the administrator password, if prompted. Disk Defragmenter must be run with administrative privileges.

3. Click the "Defragment Now" button.

Tips & Warnings

• Windows Vista schedules Disk Defragmenter to run on a regular basis. It can also be run manually.

References

• Microsoft: Improve Performance by Defragmenting Your Hard Disk
• Microsoft: What is Disk Defragmentation?