According to the Windows Update web page, if I use my disk defragmenter I could completely disable my Windows ME program and I would have to reload it. Is there anyway to fix this problem? (Other than getting Linux or a Mac computer?)
It was my understanding that WinME automatically defrags itself upon Shut Down. So maybe you’re not supposed to run Defrag yourself? Have you got a link to the web page in question, so we can see exactly what it says?
Defragging is a process that could take hours, depending on the size of a partition, so I do not think WinME would defrag on shutdown.
Defragging is a basic hard drive maintening function that should be done once every so often. It will make your programs load a little quicker (depending on how unorganized your drive is). There is a slight risk of corrupting data when defragging, but I wouldn’t worry too much about it. If the computer is in the process and there is a power outage, for example, the disk might corrupt data.
Other than that, I can’t think of anything that can cause the need for a reload. It sounds more like a standard disclaimer by Microsoft so no one can sue for damages.
If by ‘my defragmenter’ you mean ‘one that didn’t come with win ME,’ you’re probably correct. That could cause some icky problems. There should be one built into Win ME that’s more stable than that; mine has one that I have to slap every once in a while to get it to stop bothering me. There should be a scheduler you can crank up if you have system resources you’re not using which will schedule the defrag to run when you’re not using the machine.
I still have the original rebuild disks for the PC, so I can take it back to factory new if I have to. I just fly along on the ragged edge of destruction and remember that as a last resort I have a Win98 CD, in case win ME blows up.
I’ve defragged with ME and I’m still here - no problems of which I’m currently aware. But it’s quiet, too damn quiet…Seems a bit silly to include software and recommend not using it ? - “Don’t press the red button !” - perhaps it’s me.
I also just loaded Norton’s Utilities and I’ve been to scared (ok, cautious) to run the Disk Doctor with ME – wondered if anyone has lived to tell the tale ?