Running the task scheduler in XP and Vista

Windows XP and VISTA: How To Run Task Scheduler

The Windows Task scheduler can be a life saver.  As an example of how to set it up, we will go through the steps needed to perform automatic disk defragmentation.  Since this task should be done regularly, it serves as an excellent example.

1. Click START.
2. Type “Task Scheduler” in the search box.
3. Click on Task Scheduler.
4. Click Task Scheduler Library >> Microsoft >> Windows >> Defrag.
5. Double-click “ScheduledDefrag”
6. Click “Triggers”
7. Double-click “Weekly”
8. Now you can edit the schedule.
    A. Select when to run defrag (Once, Daily, Weekly, Monthly, or Disabled).
    B. Select “Advanced Settings” and modify as desired.
9. Click “Begin the task”, and select when you want defrag to start.
10. Click “OK”.
11. Click the “Conditions” tab.
    A. Set how defrag occurs at idle time.  This is up to your preferences, but make it at least 10 minutes.
    B. If this is a laptop, set it to only run when AC power is connected.
12. Click “OK”.
13. Click the “settings” tab.
    A. Adjust the settings to best suit your needs.
14. Click “OK”.

Article written by MyComputerAid.com