Defragmentation software - GCSE Computer Science Definition

Reviewed by: Robert Hampton

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Defragmentation software is a utility program essential for maintaining a computer's hard drive efficiency. Over time, files on a disk become fragmented, meaning that different parts of a file are scattered across the disk, leading to slower access times. Defragmentation software reorganises the data by rearranging the fragments of files and free space on the hard drive to put them into contiguous blocks, which helps in speeding up data retrieval and improving overall system performance. For GCSE Computer Science students, understanding defragmentation is crucial as it highlights concepts related to data storage efficiency and the inner workings of computer maintenance.

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Robert Hampton

Reviewer: Robert Hampton

Expertise: Computer Science Content Creator

Rob has over 16 years' experience teaching Computer Science and ICT at KS3 & GCSE levels. Rob has demonstrated strong leadership as Head of Department since 2012 and previously supported teacher development as a Specialist Leader of Education, empowering departments to excel in Computer Science. Beyond his tech expertise, Robert embraces the virtual world as an avid gamer, conquering digital battlefields when he's not coding.

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