How to Increase Free Space on Your Windows Computer

How to Increase Free Space on Your Windows Computer

Running low on disk space can slow down your computer and affect its performance. Here are several effective ways to increase free space on your Windows system:

1. Use Disk Cleanup

Disk Cleanup is a built-in tool that helps you remove unnecessary files.

  • Press Windows + S and type Disk Cleanup.
  • Select the drive you want to clean (usually C:).
  • Choose the file to delete and click OK.
  • Confirm the deletion.

2. Uninstall Unused Applications

Remove programs you no longer use:

  • Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
  • Scroll through the list, select an app, and click Uninstall.

3. Delete Temporary Files

Temporary files can accumulate over time:

  • Press Windows + R, type %temp%, and press Enter.
  • Select all files (Ctrl + A) and delete them..

4. Use Storage Sense

Windows 10 and 11 include Storage Sense, which automates disk cleaning:

  • Go to Settings > System > Storage.
  • Toggle on Storage Sense and configure it to delete temporary files and manage locally available cloud content.

5. Move Files to External Storage

Consider moving large files (videos, photos) to an external hard drive or USB drive to free up space.

6. Utilize Cloud Storage

Use services like OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox to store files in the cloud, reducing local storage needs.

7. Delete Duplicate Files

Duplicate files can consume unnecessary space. Use a duplicate file finder tool to identify and remove them.

8. Clean Up Downloads Folder

Regularly check your Downloads folder:

  • Open File Explorer and go to Downloads.
  • Delete files you no longer need.



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