How to Defrag Windows 7

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Updated: March 29, 2019 | References

Running the Disk Defragmenter in Windows 7 allows your computer to rearrange all its fragmented data, which, in turn, can improve your computer's overall speed and efficiency. In Windows 7, you can manually defrag your computer at any time, or set up a regular defrag schedule using Disk Defragmenter. Follow these instructions to defrag your Windows 7 computer.

Part Three of Three:
Configure a Disk Defragmenter Schedule

  1. 1
    Click on "Turn on schedule" or "Configure schedule."
  2. 2
    Place a checkmark next to "Run on a schedule."
  3. 3
    Select the frequency at which you want Disk Defragmenter to run. You can choose to defrag your computer daily, weekly, or monthly.
  4. 4
    Select the day of week and time you want to Disk Defragmenter to run.
  5. 5
    Click on "Select Disks" to choose the disks you want defragmented. You can choose to defrag all disks, or select disks.
  6. 6
    Click on "OK," then "Close" to save your Disk Defragmenter preferences. Your computer will then defrag regularly on the day and time you've selected for the schedule.

Community Q&A

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  • Question
    Does the PC have to be on in order to run the scheduled defrag?
    Community Answer
    • Yes, you have to have the PC on for the scheduled event to run.
    Thanks! 1 1
  • Question
    Do I need to empty the trash basket after defragmentation?
    Community Answer
    • No. When you erase files, you create holes where the file data was previously stored. It's because of these holes that there is a need to sometimes defragment an HDD. It's best is to erase files you don't need before you defragment. With a larger percentage of free space, the defrag software has more options to find alternative solutions and the more continuous free space will be directly available after the defrag. Just note that a traditional defragmentation should normally only be done on an HDD and not on an SSD. The cost of fragmented file accesses is very much lower for an SSD, and the defragmentation process creates a lot of wear on the SSD flash media.
    Thanks! 0 0
  • During defrag, what does the '% relocated' number mean?
  • How many steps are there to completely defragment Windows 7?
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  • Prior to running a manual defrag, check the schedule within the main Disk Defragmenter window to see whether a defrag has recently been completed. The schedule will display the time and date of the most recent defrag process.
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  • Click on "Analyze Disk" within the main Disk Defragmenter window prior to running a manual defrag. The Analyze Disk process will inform you whether or not your computer needs to be defragmented at that particular time.
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  • If you are using a computer at a workplace or on a public network, you may need an administrator password to run the Windows 7 Disk Defragmenter.
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  • Schedule an automatic defrag process to run during times your computer is on, but not in use, such as during your lunch break or near the end of your work day. This will prevent Disk Defragmenter from slowing your computer down or consuming CPU during use.
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Co-authors: 4
Updated: March 29, 2019
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Categories: Windows 7

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