Used in the maintenance of file systems, defragmenters are software programs designed to reduce the degree of fragmentation of data on a disk by physically organizing its contents into the smallest number of contiguous regions, while creating larger regions of free space using compaction, thus slowing the return of fragmentation.
Defragmentation utilities may also keep smaller files within a single directory together, since they are often accessed in sequence.
Fragmentation occurs because of the tendency of a file system to layout the contents of files non-contiguously. Because data is not placed in the order in which it is used, disk head movement is increased, along with the amount of time that it takes to run a program. Resulting problems increase as more and more of the hard drive becomes filled with disorganized data. Defragmentation is designed to reorganize file data and free space back into contiguous areas on the disk.
Defragmentation is not as critical in computers with SSD disks, as they don't rotate and are not actually discs in the conventional sense. As there is no movement of heads or discs with SSD drives, fragmentation doesn't pose as much of a performance problem.
Otherwise, fragmentation occurs when a file system does not (or cannot) allocate enough contiguous space to store a complete file as a unit, but instead places parts of it in gaps between existing data, which are usually there because they previously held a file that the system has deleted, or because the system had allocated excess space for the file in the first place.
Defragmentation moves the physical allocation blocks for an application so that they eventually merge, preferably into one. This usually requires at least two copy operations, the first moving the blocks into a temporary hold space on the disk so that further movement can occur, and the other to move the blocks to their intended place. As no data is actually removed from the disk, a power loss during the defragmentation process would not result in a problem.
Defragmentation software only moves files around within the available free space, and it cannot occur without free space.
As a temporary degradation of system performance may occur during the defragmentation process, it's best to leave the computer alone until defragmentation is completed.
Successful defragmentation can increase the speed at which programs load, as well as the efficiency of their operation, and the amount of time that it takes to open files
Defragmentation utilities are often included as modules in a disk or file management suite, but they may also be available as standalone programs. The focus of this category is on software designed to defragment a drive.
Recommended Resources
Created as part of the CCleaner suite, Defraggler is available as a standalone free program and a professional edition, Defraggler Pro. The free version may be downloaded from the site, and the professional edition may be installed on up to three PCs. Screenshots are presented, along with a list of features, downloadable documentation, and an online community support forum, which also discusses other CCleaner products. Registration is required for participation in the forum.
https://www.ccleaner.com/defraggler
The German company develops and sells software products for data management and security. Its defrag utility is available as a standalone product, with three options: Professional 1 PC, Professional 5 PCs, or PowerPack, each intended for the Microsoft Windows platform. Each of its editions is compared side-by-side, with a list of features included in each, as well as prices. Datasheets, a user guide, and other documentation may be downloaded in PDF format.
https://www.oo-software.com/en/products/oodefrag/
Puran Utilities includes more than twenty software utilities, most of which were developed to help users get the best performance out of their computers. Its defragmentation utility is free for private and non-commercial uses and is available as a standalone application. Compatible with Microsoft Windows, Defrag optimizes the drive by placing the things most needed in the most accessible places, and many other features, which are highlighted here, along with reviews and support options.
http://www.puransoftware.com/Puran-Defrag.html
In business for more than thirty-five years, the company specializes in producing defragmentation software for the Windows operating system, along with other administrative tools for desktops, laptops, servers, Exchange servers, Windows Home Server, and virtualization solutions, such as VMware, Microsoft, and other Windows-based host systems. Its consumer and business products are highlighted, along with its business product support services.
https://www.raxco.com/
Offered by IObit, a system utilities and security software company, Smart Defrag is a Windows-based utility that is available as a free download, although a premium version is available through an annual subscription. An overview of the program is put forth, including the ways in which defragmentation might enhance the operation of the PC. Media reviews are published to the site, along with support information, uninstall instructions and other resources.
https://www.iobit.com/en/iobitsmartdefrag.php
Marketed as a file placement optimizer, the DiskTrix defragmentation utility offers six defragmentation methods, with multiple options for positioning files on a hard drive. Available for Windows-based PCs, it is available for purchase online. A description of the software product is given, including a list of features, screenshots, and other information, as well as tutorials, licensure data, customer service options, and a community support forum.
https://www.disktrix.com/
Designed for use on Microsoft Windows systems, UltraDefrag rearranges files on the PC’s hard drive so that the operating system, applications, and games perform better. Its capabilities include the defragmentation of locked files, offers user configuration, and an option for automatic defragmentation according to a set schedule. A full list of features is included in the available UltraDefrag Handbook, along with a list of recent changes. Two pricing plans are available.
https://www.ultradefrag.net/
