Simple Defragmenting Question

[koalabear4]

I searched F&Q and forums with no results for this question.
Hello , first of all let me start by apoligizing for asking a stupid question. I am new to computers and file sharing. I have many files in my shared folder which is stored on my hard drive- only 40gbs. Computer has been slow and networks arre telling me not enough disk space to complete downloads so I have deleted all unnecessary files or incomplete files. I went thru my registry cleaner and cleaned it out, etc. So now I want to do disk defragmenting and disk cleanup. I read the help but it does not tell me if or how my files will be affected should I make backup of my shared folder first? Or should I store it somewhere else? I already know i need a bigger hard drive or external hard drive so please stick with my question. Thanks

[gorphon]

no. you do not need to worry about archiving or moving your files before defragging. however, generally speaking, its a good idea to have a regular archiving schedule. also, you could back up your data files to cd or dvd, delete them off your machine and, presto!, more space. :bom:

[DingoElDiablo]

A very good defragmenting program to use is Disckeeper. Works fantastic.

Plus, you should consider making data dics for your music collection, files, etc....

[Krell]

2 great posts there!


On the face of it, when it really just comes down to it, I want you to reboot

go back to XP with NOTHING running, nothing open

Start > Prog Files > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Defragmentor

Run this on EACH drive, then REBOOT

REBOOT I tell you ! Theres a reason for this, with a lot of technical mumbo jumbo

After you have ran Disk Defragmentor, AND rebooted, you should see the immediate benifit of your work.


Also, EVERYONE - please note

Go to Start > Run
Type CMD
when the CMD window opens
Type CHKDSK C: /f

thats CHKDSK<space>C:<space>/f

I want you to repeat that for each drive letter by pressing the UP arrow key, and changing the drive letter from C: to D:, E: F: etc etc

CHKDSK D: /f

CHKDSK E: /f

CHKDSK F: /f

CHKDSK G: /f

It may ask you to reboot, etc, whatever it asks, SAY YES

This is the best analysis and defense that you have against file corruption and losing your data, unless you have 3rd party software and know what youre doing



.

[P2P Wizard]

This is the best analysis and defense that you have against file corruption and losing your data, unless you have 3rd party software and know what youre doing



.

Great advice. And then even so there should also be a full backup somewhere as well for everything you can't afford to lose.