Computer Network Defragmentation Programs

Globally, over 700 million computers are active today, and every one is affected by fragmentation to some degree. Networks allow for computers to communicate as well as share resources and information. A computer network can also provide key business functions, such as online sales or inventory control. As a result, the computers within the network may run many different programs, tasks, and functions.
 
The benefit of a network lies in its ability to handle a multitude of tasks quickly and efficiently. The drawback is that a network can compound the amount of maintenance needed to keep your network operating at optimal levels. If your computer network is running slowly, it may be suffering from fragmentation on the hard disk drive.

Network Fragmentation

Fragmentation is a significant issue that affects computer systems and networks. It is a culprit behind many computer problems and systems failures, and can contribute to increased technology expenses.
 
Fragmentation occurs as a result of changing, saving, and modifying files. The hard drive is designed to store saved files in a contiguous manner. When a file is updated, it is stored directly behind the previous file that was saved. If the updated file is larger than its original allotment of storage space, the excess information is stored in the next available space. This results in a fragmented file. A single file can be modified as many times as needed; therefore, a file can be divided perpetually.
 
When the computer needs to access a fragmented file, it must extensively search the hard drive for each piece. This can be a long, frustrating process for a computer user. For this same reason, fragmented files also take much longer to save and back up.
 
Running a network defrag is an easy way to ensure computer efficiency and speed. It will re-organize and align fragmented computer files into single, contiguous files that are easy for your computer to retrieve and process. Regularly running a defrag program ensures that fragmentation is minimized on an ongoing basis. This keeps your hard drive from overwork, which can prevent system hangs, program errors and hard drive crashes.

Selecting a Defrag Program

Modern defrag software is fast and convenient, and available for all types of computer networks. Some of the more desirable features found in computer defragmentation programs include:
  • Automatic scheduling: It is important to look for a program with the option to schedule a defragmentation weekly, monthly, when the screensaver is on, or when the computer is idle. Setting a schedule keeps the defrag process from interrupting your work flow.

  • Free space consolidation: Quality programs can ensure that your hard drive has the largest piece of consolidated, contiguous free space possible.

  • Selected file defragmentation: Programs that allow you to specify which computers and files to defrag will give you the greatest amount of control over how your resources are used during defragmentation. Look for a program that allows the user to select which files are defragged- a single file, certain files, or the whole drive.

  • Single-pass defragmentation: By completing defragmentation of all systems in one pass, the defragmentation process takes less time and better manages files and space.
Free defrag software accompanies many operating systems, though it is often simplistic and typically ineffective when defragging computer networks. Defragmentation software reviews can help you to choose disk defragmentation software that meets your needs. The best defrag software will have tools that comprehensively manage the defragmentation goals of your network with minimal requirements of your time and input.

Benefits of Defragmentation

Investing in a quality defrag program can save time and money, and minimalize frustration. By investing in defrag software that boosts performance and prolongs hardware life, you reduce your need for costly upgrades and save yourself time.
 
Resources
 
Boyers, B. (2008). Fragmentation main culprit behind computer network slowdown. Retrieved March 25, 2009, from the eCoustics Web site: http://news.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/10381/463434.html.
 
PerfectDisk. (2009). Key features. Retrieved March 25, 2009, from the Perfect Disk Web site: http://www.perfectdisk.com/products/business-perfectdisk10-server/learn-more.