When the data that is stored on your computer hard drive becomes fragmented, it slows the overall performance of your computer system. This is because when files are fragmented, the computer must search the hard disk as a file is opened (to piece it back together), which can result in significantly longer load and response times.

The Disk Defragmenter utility built into Windows 7 is designed to consolidate fragmented files and folders on your computer’s hard disk so that each occupies a single space on the disk. Having your files stored neatly end to end in this manner greatly increases …