Windows xp defragmenting hard drive

Some fragmented files which remain may be considered by the system as unmovable because of changes made through the updating processes of service pack 3. If there is someone reading this thread who works on Windows XP Pro or Media Center computers they should be able to tell us the frequency of this defragmentation issue.

I've seen it on at least four other computers besides my own and I have not as yet seen a service pack 3 system where this issue was not present.

I would not worry about it unless the defragmentation and decompaction issues are significant enough to cause noticible performance issues. I believe that as far as Windows XP is concerned, updates to correct this issue may never be seen. I Have Service Packs 1, 2, And 3. This thread is locked. You can follow the question or vote as helpful, but you cannot reply to this thread. I have the same question 9. In older file system architectures, if a file could not be stored contiguously, it could not be saved to the disk.

Newer architectures intentionally divide files into multiple pieces so as to make more efficient use of disk storage space. Since files are constantly being written, deleted, and resized, fragmentation is a natural and ongoing occurrence. However, it is also one that has significant performance implications. When a file is spread out over several locations, it takes longer to read and write.

In fact, the effects of fragmentation can be more widespread than that, causing long boot times, random crashes and system freeze-ups. Defragmentation is a time-consuming process, the more so the greater the extent of fragmentation. It is therefore important to terminate any programs, including those running in the background like firewalls and anti-virus programs — before starting the defragmentation process.

Sign up for the Confident Computing newsletter for weekly solutions to make your life easier. Click here and get The Ask Leo! Getting at the defragmenter is actually pretty easy in Windows XP. Become a Patron of Ask Leo! Fire up Windows Explorer clicking the Windows key plus the letter E is usually the quickest way to get to it.

Right-click on the drive you want to defragment. Click Properties and then click Tools. That then should also run the defragmenter from the command line. The issue here is that defragmentation operates at a low-level on the hard drive.

Much lower than typical applications that are just opening and managing files. I believe that Windows restricts this to administrators simply for security. Theoretically, those low-level APIs could probably be used for some malicious purpose.

Regardless of the reason administrative access may be required. Another approach to defragmenting is to go and get the free program called Defraggler.