

The tool can also be configured to automatically remove temporary files and those in your recycle and download bin.įollow these steps to remove files using Storage sense: Like Disk Cleanup, Storage Sense empowers you to manually view and delete temporary and junk files, quickly freeing space and boosting drive efficiency.

In addition to file type and size, it’s important to be aware of where your files are living.

Chrome browser caches, for example, can take up a sizeable chunk of your C drive and must be cleared regularly. You should also look for temporary files used by other programs. Space taken up by photos and videos in particular can add up quickly, due to advancements made in high-quality image capture. Many day-to-day files also take up more space than you may realize, especially if hidden duplicates abound. Other hidden culprits include old (often redundant) Windows system files that remain after a new Windows update has been implemented. Programs and applications that come bundled into the software you’re using on a daily basis can take up the most space on your hard drive without you even knowing they’re there. What is taking up space on my hard drive? If you’re going to decommission, donate, or recycle a computer, then it’s also important to learn how to properly wipe clean a hard drive so no trace of sensitive information remains. Beyond performance and functionality, knowing how to clean hard drives is a critical component of security-keeping unnecessary, sensitive files and data around increases your surface of attack exposure.
