Fragmentation is one of the most significant – and yet unknown - problems that plague computer systems and networks. It accounts for billions in annual economic losses, and is one of the leading causes of a wide number of computer problems and system failures. Why don't users and IT departments take action? The following defrag myths may explain why.

Myth: My system or network doesn't have fragmentation.

Wrong. It is estimated that there are over 700 million computers activity-in-use in the world today, and every single one of them has fragmentation issues to one degree or another.

Myth: I already have defrag software already preinstalled in my operating system.

Not really. There IS a kind of defragmentation software that comes pre-stalled with many operating systems, but it is a technological dinosaur in comparison to modern defrag software.

Myth: Defragmenting my network during work hours will causes disruptions in performance.

This is a major and legitimate concern among IT professionals, but choosing a high performance defragmenter that is specifically designed for networks will allow a systems administrator to defrag the system without affecting productivity. Companies such as Diskeeper make highly advanced network defragmentation software which is completely transparent when running in the background.

Myth: I have to replace my computer due to slow performance.

Not necessarily. Fragmentation is the scattering of data and files across the hard drive. As fragmentation builds up, pieces of data become increasingly scattered, and the read/write head takes longer and longer to write and retrieve data. This shows up as sluggish, slow performance, and eventually freeze-ups and failure. It is very possible, however, that a defrag of the system with a high quality defragmenter will return your ailing system or network to maximum performance.

Myth: Using defrag software is a hassle.

More misconception stemming from the use of the pre-stalled version. Unfortunately, it's a lot like comparing a horse-and-buggy to a race car. Modern defragmentation software is lightening fast by comparison and the best ones are so completely automatic that you can forget about them once installed.

Myth: I don't have time to defrag every computer in my network.

Believe it or not, nowadays there are defragmentation programs that will intelligently and automatically defragment every single workstation and server in the network with virtually no supervision – regardless of the size of your network. Installation, deployment, and control can all be done from one central administrative terminal. In effect, the company and network management saves time, money, and effort because the system as a whole is kept at peak performance, allowing IT personnel to put there attention elsewhere.

Myth: Defrag software is expensive.

Actually, most initial downloads are free. The best companies have a full line-up of defragmentation products - from the home user, to small business, to the largest networks – that one can choose from. The long range cost savings are usually enormous for companies and network administrators due to the tremendously reduced wear and tear on their hardware and drives, and reduced maintenance cost.

Don't let a myth prevent you from finding out whether your system is running at peak performance or not. The best recommendation is to download a copy of defrag software and see for yourself whether or not it makes a difference.