I know it's been debated adnauseum for years, but I've got debate going on with a FELLOW GEEK about just what are the true risks if you fail to defrag regularly (I usually do it once a week, AT LEAST once every 3 wks). I've read before that if left unattended for long enough you can actually damage the system files.  As a pro-audio user that uses 250 - 450 Meg wav files over 8 tracks, with realtime FX, it's always been recommended to at least have a separate hard drive, and to defrag VERY often. But our real debate was if it truly damaged sys files if left unattended.  I maintain they do.

Tanx,
KCWhen files are heavily defragmented, the only outcome is the slower computer, because it takes the system longer time to find the info. I see no connection between DEFRAGMENTATION, and damaging system files.
On a top of it, todays processors are so fast, that even with highly defragmented files, it's gonna be hard for "naked eye" to see the speed difference.Oh, My Dear Mr. Broni:

You Are A True And Wonderful Mastermind

MMmmm: I Just Feel So Much More Secure Knowing That There Are Men, True And Godly Men, Like You In The WorldRemember the LESSON of "The Incredibles," Broni:  no capes!   Yes No capes and no escapes
This time i'm for Real Quote

When files are heavily defragmented, the only outcome is the slower computer,

(I usually do it once a week, AT LEAST once every 3 wks).

You mean faster, right?

That There Are Men, True And Godly Men,
Like You In The World[quote