Posts Tagged ‘computer hardware’

Page File Fragmentation May Cause Slow Computer

Saturday, July 24th, 2010

If you actually utilize a pc running a version of Windows you may note that your pc at one time was fast,but now your computer is slow quite often. Of course we understand many reasons exist for the slow computer; nonetheless, this article is going to look at something referred to as Windows Page File, how it is utilized, and perhaps a recommendation on how to use it correctly and perhaps tips on how to rectify a slow computer system.

First let’s describe what the page file really does and why it is actually used. In the days when RAM/Memory was costly, the page file was created. This Windows Page File was created to be used as a swap for the actual physical memory. Windows typically will allocate a particular percentage of one’s main hard drive, and store data there that it believes might be used, it is going to swap the data between the two acting as an extension to the exact amount of physical RAM. This was developed to speed up the operations, however, after some time, all the writing that is going on between the two can certainly cause more of a slow computer than a speedy computer.

You can also have difficulty with a slow computer in the event the Windows page file becomes fragmented. If you use the pre-installed setup of the page file, it will likely be situated on the main hard drive (typically “C” drive). If this location is operating low on disk space, the page file will probably become fragmented as it is attempting to allocate space, nonetheless it must place these in chunks and bits, simply mainly because there is inadequate contiguous space.

Most computer users would want to continue to keep Windows page file on, which is advised, even so, you should not utilize your main hard drive, for a couple of reasons. The first is mentioned above; it may result in the page file to become fragmented as a result of lack of space. In case you have a second hard drive or usb external hard drive, build your page file on that drive. Not only can this create a slow computer, it may actually cut down the life span of some of your internal computer parts, including the hard drive. With the constant mechanisms being used, it needless to say increases the danger of degradation; anything used too much won’t last for as long.

You should be aware that there is certainly controversy relating to the usage of the page file. Many believe it should never be disabled, while others say it needs to be. We are not advising either way, it is up to you if you wish to disable the page file. This article is just recommending that you move the Windows page file to another drive, to help maintain your main computer’s hard disk mechanisms in addition to help if your computer is slow, by placing it on a drive that is less used and will not cause the page file to be fragmented.

If you think that your computer is slow and are looking to rectify the problem quickly visit this website and learn more about Page File and numerous other computer tips, free guides and computer repair information.