Delete These Windows Files and Folders to Free Up Disk Space

Having unwanted files on your PC could affect Windows performance and speed. Therefore, it’s crucial to delete the old junks and hidden caches to improve your PC’s durability. However, the process of deleting these files is also tricky as any blunder could see you corrupt some files or lose crucial data. Below are Windows files and folders that are safe to delete and the importance of erasing them.

The Easiest Way to Delete Windows Files and Folders

While most unnecessary files are hidden in protected areas, it might be a hassle to find and delete each of them. Since you’re dealing with a digital device, you can automate the cleanup process to save time and avoid messing with the wrong files. 

Windows Disk Cleanup tool is one of the most effective tools to delete unwanted files and folders. Simply type “Disk Cleanup” in the “Start” menu and choose a drive to scan for categories of files you can delete. 

However, if you’re using Windows 10, there’s a less clunky way to do it. 

1. Browse “Settings.”
2. Click “System.”
3. Select “Storage.”
4. Click “Temporary Files.”

A list will appear showing all files that you can erase from Windows.

5. Select “Clean up System Files’ to see options of files you can delete from disk cleanup.

Below are some options that you can select from the prompt list. 

1. Windows Update Cleanup: These are old copies of Windows Update necessary if you run into update-related issues that require troubleshooting. However, since the update-related issues are rare, deleting the old copies is safe.
2. Recycle Bin: You can also empty your recycle bin here as long as nothing important is inside the bin. 
3. Language Resource Files: This represents any unnecessary keyboard layout or language in your Windows. Marking this option will help you erase the files easily. 
4. Windows Upgrade Log Files: Like in Windows update cleanup, Windows upgrade log files help you address problems associated with installations and upgrades. So, if your PC doesn’t have errors related to installation and upgrades, you can also mark these files for deletion. 
5. Temporary Files: These files have no important use in the long run, and you should not hesitate to delete them right away. 

Below are other files and folders that you can delete safely on your Windows PC.

Windows Temp Folder

As the name suggests, Temporary files on windows aren’t helpful beyond their initial application, and they contain information that you no longer need. Simply visit the folder and delete all contents manually rather than deleting these files through the Disk Cleanup process. 

1. Go to “This PC”/ “My Computer.”
2. Click “Local Disc C.”
3. Select “Windows.”
4. Scroll and right-click “Temp.”
5. Hit “Delete.”

Ignore any error message and clear everything.

The Hibernation File

This file helps your PC store all your open work in hibernation mode. Unlike the sleep mode, the hibernation mode enables you to pick right where you left, even if you removed your laptop battery. Of course, the process takes up space, which we call the hibernation file. Depending on your PC hard drive size, the file has several gigabytes in space. So, if you rarely use hibernation, you can delete it using the following process. 

1. Press “WIN+ X” or “Right-click the Start button.”
2. Open “Windows PowerShell” or “Command Prompt.”
3. Paste this command “powercfg.exe /hibernate off” to disable the mode. 

Windows. old Folder

These are copy files of your previous version of Windows stored when you upgrade to the latest version. These files are crucial if you need a few files from the previous version or the update doesn’t go as planned. Although the updated Windows removes this folder after some time, you can remove it manually if you need space urgently.

1. Type “Disk Cleanup” on the “Start” menu. 
2. Select “Clean Up System Files.”
3. Find and delete “Previous Windows Installation(s).”