How to Clean a Hard Drive

A hard drive refers to the main storage device for any computer system whether it be a desktop computer or handheld device. Hard drives are usually about the size of a small, paperback book and can exist in both internal and external models. Internal hard drives are usually connected to the computer via an IDE cable while external hard drives use a USB or FireWire cable. Regardless of what kind of hard drive it is or how much information it can hold, all hard drives must be maintained in order for it to function properly. To clean a hard drive and return it to optimal performance, users should apply each of the programs listed below.

Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware
Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware is an antimalware program that is able to quickly and efficiently remove spyware, viruses, and other forms of malware from the user's computer. Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware has always been free to use and now supports both Windows Vista and Windows 7. The software can fully scan any drive or device that is connected to the computer at the time that the program is running, is updated on a daily basis, includes support for multiple languages, and features quick scanning. The software is able to interact with other antimalware programs and includes its own list of external tools that can be used to manually remove malware from the user's computer. While the free version of Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware is enough to clean the user's hard drive, there is a premium version for $24.95 that features real-time protection, scheduled scans, and scheduled updates.

Disk Cleanup
Disk Cleanup is a very useful and convenient tool for freeing up wasted memory on the user's hard drive. This may be done in order to make room for a new installation or to increase processing speeds. Disk Cleanup is capable of deleting the contents of the user's Recycle Bin, temporary Internet files that have been downloaded every time the user accesses a webpage, regular temporary files that accumulate on the user's hard drive from internal processes, unnecessary Windows Components (these should usually not be deleted because they may be needed in the future), and downloaded program files for browser plug-ins and similar accessories. In addition to Disk Cleanup, the Add/Remove Programs feature can also be used to clear wasted memory on the user's hard drive by uninstalling unused programs.

Disk Defragmenter
Disk Defragmenter is a tool that comes with Windows and allows users to increase data transfer rates and computer startup speeds and improve overall performance conditions. Disk Defragmenter works by rearranging data on the user's hard drive so that it is in a continuous path instead of being randomly placed. This technique dramatically decreases the amount of time that the computer must spend looking for data so that it can begin displaying it right away.

System Restore
System Restore is a function included in all versions of the Windows Operating System that allows the user to restore a computer to a time before a major change had taken place. System Restore is most frequently used after a Windows Component has been accidentally removed or the computer's registry has been corrupted. System Restore cannot remove viruses or files but can undo the effects of viruses and other malware.

Reformat
Reformatting refers to a process in which the contents of a hard drive or device are overwritten and the file system of the device is renewed. Reformatting usually provides the user with a way to resolve an issue of nothing else works. Reformatting is simple for a secondary hard drive or device as files are simply erased and the device is then reset. Reformatting a primary hard drive, however, involves the use of an Operating System Installation Disk. Files should always be backed up before reformatting either a primary or secondary device.