[iamamyp]

I realize that it must be a very simple question, but I can't figure out how to defrag, using this operating system... Help, please! I'm used to start/programs/accessories/system tools/defrag, but it doesn't work w/ this application. (Windows NT 4.0)
Thanks for the help. -amy

 

[Bob Cerelli]

There is no built-in defragmenter in NT4. That didn't get added until Windows2000.

You will need a 3rd party program like Diskeeper to defrag NT4 Workstation or Server.

Bob Cerelli

 

[iamamyp]

Thank you for your response, Bob. I'll look into that. Do you have any other suggestions (such as the defrag) that would help my system run smoother/faster? I get a lot of error messages, "system running low on virtual memory", etc. I just ran spybot yesterday, so I'm on my way... (thanks again...)

 

[Bob Cerelli]

Actually I've never really seen that much performance difference running a defrag. There a so many other things that will increase performance a lot more.

1. If you are getting low on virtual memory, you should probably up the setting. This is something you can do right now.

Right click on My Computer
Select Properties / Performance tab
In the Virtual Memory section, click on the Change button
I don't know what it is set at or how much memory you have, but typical settings are 1.5 to 2 times the amount of memory. Then click on set. Reboot.
If this isn't enough then make it larger.

2. Add more memory. It's pretty inexpensive these days and can only make the system perform better.

3. Clean out the TEMP directory. This is the user's temp directory, not the IE cache. I've seen many computers where the owner was ready to get a new one. Just cleaning this out and rebooting made a huge difference in performance.

 

[jameso321]

If the machine is 3+ years old, consider a clean install.

Even P2 based systems I manage to have XP running well on after a 100% clean install.

"nothing like a good system nuke to make all the problems go away"


jameso321