1.5.10

Defragmentation Software

Test yourself

Defragmentation Software

Defragmentation software is a common type of utility software.

Illustrative background for FragmentationIllustrative background for Fragmentation ?? "content

Fragmentation

  • When files are written to secondary storage, they are not always written in one continuous block. They may be split up.
  • If a single file is stored in different places on a storage device, we say that the file is fragmented.
  • Fragmented files take longer to load.
Illustrative background for DefragmentationIllustrative background for Defragmentation ?? "content

Defragmentation

  • Defragmentation software reorganises the data on the storage device so that data from the same file is stored in adjacent blocks.
  • Defragmentation software will increase the performance of the computer.
Illustrative background for Solid state drivesIllustrative background for Solid state drives ?? "content

Solid state drives

  • Solid state drives (SSDs) provide random access to data.
  • This means that fragmented data does not take any longer to load.
  • SSDs should never be defragmented because this will push the device towards its read/write cycle limit, which shortens its lifetime.

Jump to other topics

1Computer Systems

1.1Systems Architecture

1.2Memory & Storage

1.3Computer Networks, Connections & Protocols

1.4Network Security

1.5Systems Software

1.6Ethical, Legal, Cultural & Environmental Concern

2Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming

2.1Algorithms

2.2Programming Fundamentals

2.3Producing Robust Programs

2.4Boolean Logic

2.5Programming Languages & IDEs

Go student ad image

Unlock your full potential with GoStudent tutoring

  • Affordable 1:1 tutoring from the comfort of your home

  • Tutors are matched to your specific learning needs

  • 30+ school subjects covered

Book a free trial lesson