NOTE:
Because solid state drives (SSDs) lack moving parts, they do not require HP 3D DriveGuard
protection.
NOTE:
A hard drive in a primary hard drive bay or a secondary hard drive bay is protected by HP 3D
DriveGuard. A hard drive installed in an optional docking device or connected to a USB port is not protected by
HP 3D DriveGuard.
For more information, see the HP 3D DriveGuard software Help.
Identifying HP 3D DriveGuard status
The drive light on the computer changes color to show that the drive in a primary hard drive bay and/or the
drive in a secondary hard drive bay (select models only) is parked. To determine whether a drive is currently
protected or whether it is parked, view the icon on the Windows desktop in the notification area, at the far
right of the taskbar.
Using Disk Defragmenter
As you use your computer over time, the files on the hard drive become fragmented. A fragmented drive
means data on your drive is not contiguous (sequential) and, because of this, the hard drive works harder to
locate files, thus slowing down the computer. Disk Defragmenter consolidates (or physically reorganizes) the
fragmented files and folders on the hard drive so that the system can run more efficiently.
NOTE:
It is not necessary to run Disk Defragmenter on solid-state drives.
After you start Disk Defragmenter, it works without supervision. However, depending on the size of your hard
drive and the number of fragmented files, Disk Defragmenter may take more than an hour to complete.
HP recommends defragmenting your hard drive at least once a month. You may set Disk Defragmenter to run
on a monthly schedule, but you can defragment your computer manually at any time.
To run Disk Defragmenter:
1.
Connect the computer to AC power.
2.
Select Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Defragmenter.
3.
Follow the on-screen instructions.
For additional information, access the Disk Defragmenter software Help.
Using Disk Cleanup
Disk Cleanup searches the hard drive for unnecessary files that you can safely delete to free up disk space and
help the computer run more efficiently.
To run Disk Cleanup:
1.
Select Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Cleanup.
2.
Follow the on-screen instructions.
Updating programs and drivers
HP recommends that you update your programs and drivers on a regular basis to the latest versions. Updates
can resolve issues and bring new features and options to your computer. Technology is always changing, and
updating programs and drivers allows your computer to run the latest technology available. For example,
older graphics components might not work well with the most recent gaming software. Without the latest
driver, you would not be getting the most out of your equipment.
Updating programs and drivers
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