Running out of storage can make Windows harder to use and leave less room for updates. These steps help you free space without deleting important files blindly.
1. Check what is using your storage
- Open Settings → System → Storage.
- Review the categories using the most space.
- Open the largest categories to see what can safely be removed.
2. Remove temporary files
- In Storage, open Temporary files.
- Review the list carefully.
- Select files you no longer need.
- Choose Remove files.
3. Uninstall apps you no longer use
- Open Settings → Apps → Installed apps.
- Sort by size when useful.
- Uninstall programs you recognize and no longer need.
4. Move large personal files
Move large videos, photos, installers, or project files to another drive or trusted cloud storage after confirming you have a backup.
5. Empty the Recycle Bin
Open the Recycle Bin and make sure you do not need anything inside it. Then empty it to actually reclaim the space.
Still low on space?
Use the Storage settings to identify the largest category before deleting anything manually. This reduces the risk of removing files Windows or your applications need.