O&O Defrag and the Windows Defragmenter: A comparison
Overview The problem of data fragmentation is inextricably linked with any file system. When you change or delete files on a disk, gaps are created which are later reused for other data. Since these files are usually not the same size, they are spread over several of these gaps. Over time, a mass of files is created on the hard disk that significantly slows down the time needed for accessing them.
Windows’ own Defragmenter requires administrative permissions in order to be run. This means that a user who wants to start a defragmentation must possess the permissions to do so. This is an absolute taboo in a business environment because by allowing this, all other security mechanisms would also be bypassed, and the individual user would then have unlimited control over his computer and its data. O&O Defrag has countered this problem by developing an elaborate security management.
Functionality Automatic and scheduled background defragmentation Following a one-time intuitive configuration, O&O Defrag has been optimized to function fully automated and without any further activity on the part of the user. Over the Job Assistant, the user can enter his settings for scheduling defragmentation. If the exact moment for defragmentation is not crucial, it’s possible to setup a fully automatic, periodic and even highly granular defragmentation.
Fragmentation level The level of fragmentation serves as the basis for running the desired action. It will often be used as a threshold above which defragmentation should be started. In this way it only stands to reason that a computer doesn‘t need to be defragmented when its fragmentation level is below 1%. This is how both O&O Defrag and the Windows Defragmenter function. There is, however, one major difference.
Consolidation of free disk space A modern defragmentation doesn’t only merge file fragments. It should also be able, as much as possible, to prevent new fragmentation from even occurring. This can be done by consolidating free disk space. This comes about by existing files being repositioned and thereby sealing the gaps created by previously deleted files. Compact blocks of files are then created.
Zone filing One of the most important features that makes O&O Defrag superior to other defragmentation solutions is its ability to divide drives into zones, and separate databases into files that are performance critical and non-critical. The consolidation of free disk space that’s achieved by any decent defragmentation tool already results in a noticeable increase in performance. O&O Defrag, how-ever, uses the concept of zone filing to go one logical step further.
Further advantages of O&O Defrag In addition to the advantages we’ve just described, O&O Defrag also includes a number of other features that are briefly mentioned below: Include/exclude files and folders from defragmentation Defragmentation of folders Defragmentation of NTFS Metadata Defragmentation of the swap file Defragmentation of individual files, folders, and drives using the Windows Explorer Boot Time Defragmentation for files that are blocked while Windows is running Please note that none of the ab
Summary The defragmentation of a Windows system doesn’t only mean an increase in overall system performance, it also protects against errors that may arise as a result of heavy fragmentation. In addition, defragmentation also makes it easier to recover data if a crash occurs when there is no recent backup available. The Windows integrated Defragmenter provides a basic set of functions that can only be used in a professional environment with a great deal of effort.
Test series and results The following configuration was used on the test system: 1. Original state of the installed system with the above mentioned software (factory default setting) 2.
About O&O Software GmbH O&O develops solutions for corporate clients to assist them in their daily work and reduce their costs. Our products for system optimization, data imaging, restoration and the secure deletion of data, as well as company-wide administration are pioneers in the Windows area. With our worldwide network of partners, we support companies, corporations, public institutions and private clients in more than 140 countries from our headquarters in Berlin.
O&O Defrag Up to 100% increased performance Don’t let a slow computer spoil your work or fun! Let O&O Defrag optimize your hard disks and you can experience speed increases of up to 100%! Regular disk defragmentation optimizes your PC performance! When you defragment, the files that Windows splits up when saving documents across the hard disk are logically put back together again so that files can be quickly recognized and found by the read and write heads inside your hardware.
