Defragmentation

Fragmentation is a normal occurrence within file systems. Windows XP attempts to store files in a contiguous format. However, as files are changed and resaved, the file system has to move data to different blocks of free space. The end result is that a typical file might have "pieces" scattered over the disk. When you open the file, the disk must work harder to retrieve all of the pieces and assemble them.

The first regular and important task you need to do to optimize Windows XP disk performance is defragmentation. Disk Defragmenter helps repair file fragmentation, which occurs over time in any file system. Make sure you defragment the drive at least once a month to clean up clutter.

1. Open My Computer. Right-click the disk that you want to defragment and click Properties. On the Tools tab, click the Defragment Now button.
2. The Disk Defragmenter window appears. Click the Analyze button.
3. An analysis of the drive is performed, and a message appears telling you whether or not you should defragment the drive.
4. If the drive needs to be defragmented, click the Defragment button. The defragmentation process begins and may take some time, depending on how badly the drive is fragmented.