Piriform Software has updated its free defragging tool, Defraggler to version 2.08.373. The new build adds a new disk and file benchmarking feature alongside a new VSS (Volume Shadow Service) compatible mode, plus promises better SSD detection and minor bug fixes alongside improvements to the Disk Health tab.
Defraggler made its name as one of the first tools to allow users to defrag individual files as well as entire hard drives. This latest build continues its path to become a more fully rounded defrag tool.
Benchmarking an entire drive is done from the Drive tab of the selected disk or drive in question, and returns a "Random read performance" result. Individual files can also be benchmarked from the File list tab -- just right-click the file in question to benchmark it.
The new VSS-compatible mode allows the service to be stopped while defragmenting a NTFS volume -- configure this from the Advanced tab of the Settings > Options dialog box. Also improved is the Health tab, which provides a comprehensive look at the selected drive’s physical health, giving the user fair warning of drive failure – temperatures can now be displayed in Fahrenheit as well as Celsius, while "Real Value" information has been added to the SMART data displayed.
Version 2.08 promises better SSD detection -- these drives are clearly labelled as such, and defragging is not recommended because it reduces the drive’s lifespan without improving performance. The update is rounded off with minor fixes and tiny tweaks to the defrag algorithm.
Defraggler 2.08.373 is available now as a freeware download for PCs running Windows XP or later. A portable version is also available for those who happy to use the app on a manual basis.