How to Clean Up Contiguous Computers Files

The term "contiguous file" means a stored file on the hard drive and not broken apart. These files need periodic maintenance on a PC. Contiguous files are a benefit to computer performance because files are not scattered across the hard drive, making file access faster for the operating system. PC users frequently open, edit and save files to the hard drive, which can cause "fragmentation" of files. If you would like to improve the speed of files access, use a defragmentation utility in Windows 7 to automatically fix noncontiguous files.

Difficulty: EasyInstructions1

Click "Start." Type "Disk Defragmenter" in the search box at the bottom of the "Start" menu. Press "Enter."

2

Click the disk to be defragmented under the "Current Status" section.

3

Click "Analyze Disk."

4

Click "Defragment Disk." Wait while the Windows operating system automatically defragments files on the computer, including contiguous files.

References Microsoft: Improve Performance by Defragmenting Your Hard Disk PC Magazine: Contiguous File ResourcesMicrosoft: Schedule Disk Defragmenter to Run RegularlyMicrosoft: Optimize Windows 7 for Better Performance