DIGIT-ARC read-only archive · snapshot: July 23, 2026

formatting issues...

3 posts · originally from https://geek.digit.in/community/threads/formatting-issues.128092/

mukul_rockstar
mukul_rockstar Original post #1
Jun 11, 2010 at 8:38 PM
since hdd's are magnetic platters, so will frequently formatting them will destroy them, if yes, how frequently they should be formatted:?::?::?:
krishnandu.sarkar
Jun 11, 2010 at 10:06 PM
Well......I've heard this too.....I think formatting your drive every month would sure get a problem after some time. But normally as we use won't affect anything.
Cool Buddy
Jun 11, 2010 at 10:25 PM
No, it doesn't affect the hard drive in the short run. formatting is just a process of erasing the master file table (in quick format) or rewriting the drive (in complete format). Defragmentation is much more taxing on the hard drive than formatting.
But why would you need to format frequently? If it is due to OS issues, try using a good antivirus and some utilities like ccleaner, revo uninstaller or tuneup utilities. Use a opera, firefox or chrome for web browsing rather than internet explorer. One installation should easily last for 6 months to 1 year. Use portable versions of firefox, thunderbird etc. to keep the registry & documents & settings folders cleaner.