How to Clear Storage on Windows 11

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How to Delete Files in Windows 11

Users usually struggle with limited capacity on their devices due to the quick speed of technological improvements and the growing desire for more storage space. Although Windows 11 has much improved over its predecessors because to its slick design and powerful capabilities, like any operating system, it can eventually amass files and apps that take up disk space. Eliminating superfluous storage can greatly improve the efficiency of your computer, regardless of whether you are a professional who depends on extensive program installs or a casual user who mostly uses their computer for social networking and browsing. We’ll look at a number of techniques in this comprehensive article to help you efficiently free up storage on Windows 11.

Comprehending Windows 11’s Storage Management

It’s crucial to comprehend how Windows 11 storage management functions before delving into storage clearing techniques. Storage is divided into various categories by the operating system, including System, Apps, Games, Documents, Photos, and more. Users may see which files and apps consume the most space by going to the Storage settings.

Storage Sense, a feature of Windows 11, helps manage storage space automatically by removing transient files and improving data organization. Users can, however, apply other manual techniques to recover storage space.

1. Accessing Storage Settings

Finding out how much space is being utilized and what is using it is the first step in cleaning storage.


  • Open the Settings app

    : Click on the Start menu and select the gear icon to open Settings.

  • Navigate to System

    : On the left sidebar, click on “System.”

  • Select Storage

    : Here, you ll see a visual representation of your storage usage, including categories like System, Apps, and Temporary files.

2. Using Storage Sense

A great tool for automating storage management chores is Storage Sense.


  • Enabling Storage Sense

    : In the Storage settings page, toggle the Storage Sense switch to turn it on.

  • Configure Storage Sense

    : Click on the Storage Sense option to customize settings. You can choose how often to run the tool (e.g., every day, week, or month), what files to delete (temporary files, files in the Recycle Bin, etc.), and specify the folder for Downloads. This tool can operate automatically in the background, which is convenient for maintaining storage health.

3. Deleting Temporary Files

Temporary files can occupy a large amount of storage space and are frequently safe to remove.


  • Access Temporary Files

    : In the Storage settings, scroll down and click on “Temporary files.”

  • Select Files to Delete

    : Windows 11 will show you various temporary files that can be removed, including cache files, previous Windows installations, and thumbnails. Select the files you want to remove and click the “Remove files” button.

4. Uninstall Unused Applications

Applications, particularly productivity and gaming software, may occupy a significant amount of storage space.


  • Navigate to Apps in Settings

    : Head back to the System settings and select Apps from the sidebar.

  • View Installed Apps

    : Click on Apps & features to see a list of all installed applications.

  • Uninstall Unwanted Programs

    : Identify programs you no longer use, click on them, and select “Uninstall.” Confirm your choice, and Windows will remove the application and its associated files.

5. Cleaning Up Large Files

Files can occasionally silently gather and take up needless space.


  • Use File Explorer

    : Open File Explorer and navigate to the folders that typically contain large files, such as Downloads, Documents, and even your Desktop.

  • Sort by Size

    : You can sort files by size by right-clicking the blank area in the folder, selecting “Sort by” and then “Size.”

  • Identify and Remove Large Files

    : Go through the list and delete any files you no longer need, like old downloads, videos, or large applications.

6. Managing System Restore Points

System Restore is a helpful tool, but it might use a lot of storage space for backups.


  • Access System Properties

    : Right-click on the Start button, select “System,” and then click on “System protection” on the sidebar.

  • Configure Restore Settings

    : In the System Properties window, you can see the available restore points. Click on the “Configure” button to manage your disk space usage for Restore points.

  • Delete Old Restore Points

    : You can delete old restore points or disable them if you require more storage space.

7. Cleanup Using Disk Cleanup Tool

Windows 11 still has the Disk Cleanup program, a classic Windows function.


  • Access Disk Cleanup

    : Type Disk Cleanup into the search bar and select the app.

  • Select Drive

    : Choose the drive you want to clean up, typically the C: drive, and click OK.

  • Choose Files to Clean

    : Disk Cleanup will calculate how much space you can free up. After the scan, check the boxes for the types of files you want to delete, including system files, temporary files, and thumbnails. Click OK and confirm the deletion process.

8. Utilizing OneDrive for Cloud Storage

You can offload files from your local drive by using cloud storage.


  • Set Up OneDrive

    : If you re not already using OneDrive, you can set it up through the app or Settings menu. Log in with your Microsoft account.

  • Transfer Files

    : Drag and drop files and folders you wish to upload into the OneDrive folder on your File Explorer. This action will keep local copies while also storing backup data on the cloud.

9. Cleaning Up Your Downloads Folder

Many files that are easily forgotten can gather in the Downloads folder.


  • Open Downloads Folder

    : Navigate to your Downloads folder via File Explorer.

  • Sort and Delete

    : Sort by date modified or size and evaluate which files you no longer need. Often, installers, PDFs, and media that you ve already consumed can be deleted.

10. Checking for Duplicate Files

Users frequently make duplicate files without realizing it, taking up extra space.


  • Use Duplicate File Finders

    : Consider third-party applications or built-in solutions to identify duplicate files. Applications like CCleaner or Duplicate Cleaner can help find and delete duplicate files quickly.

11. Cleaning the Recycle Bin

Until you empty the Recycle Bin, deleted files don’t actually free up storage space.


  • Empty the Recycle Bin

    : Right-click on the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop and select “Empty Recycle Bin.” Confirm to permanently delete the files, freeing up space immediately.

12. Managing Old Windows Installations

Backup data may remain after a Windows upgrade from an earlier version.


  • Access Storage Settings

    : Go to Settings > System > Storage > Temporary files.

  • Remove Previous Windows Installations

    : If you see an option for previous Windows installations, select it and confirm deletion. This can reclaim significant disk space.

13. Moving Files to External Storage

You can save a lot of space by moving data to an external hard drive that you might need later but don’t need to access right away.


  • Select Files to Move

    : Choose documents, videos, or photos that you want to keep but don t need on your primary storage.

  • Transfer Files

    : Connect an external hard drive via USB, copy the selected files, and then paste them onto the external drive.

14. Using Storage Optimization Tools

If manual procedures seem too much to handle, think about utilizing optimization technologies that aid in storage cleanup.


  • Third-party Cleanup Applications

    : Tools like CCleaner, BleachBit, or Wise Disk Cleaner can help identify and delete unnecessary files, including cache, temporary files, and other junk files efficiently.

15. Regular Maintenance for Optimal Performance

Lastly, for extended system performance, storage health must be maintained.


  • Establish a Regular Routine

    : Set aside time every month to review storage and perform cleanups.

  • Update Storage Settings

    : Utilize Storage Sense regularly and adjust settings based on your usage patterns.

Conclusion

Knowing how to control and free up storage is essential for maximizing efficiency and usability as Windows 11 develops further. By taking proactive measures to remove unneeded files and manage apps sensibly, you may increase your device’s performance and responsiveness while also extending its lifespan. By putting the above-discussed tactics into practice, you’ll be on your way to improving your computer environment’s efficiency and organization. To make sure your system functions properly and that you have the storage space you require when you need it, keep in mind that routine maintenance is essential. You can concentrate your efforts on the things that are most important if you keep your Windows 11 environment tidy and clutter-free.

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