5 Effective Strategies to Free Up Storage Space in Windows 11

Introduction​

If you're working with a Windows 11 machine, you may have noticed it starting to bog down as junk files, unused applications, and various system updates pile up. It's a routine struggle: running out of space not only halts your ability to download new apps and files but can also turn your computer into a sluggish shell of its former self. While upgrading to a larger hard drive always looms as a fail-safe option, it's not always accessible or sensible. Thankfully, Windows is equipped with several built-in tools and features that allow you to reclaim storage without relying on third-party software. Here’s a closer look at five effective strategies for freeing up space on your Windows 11 system, aimed at enhancing performance and keeping things running smoothly.

1. Run the Disk Cleanup Tool​

Your Windows 11 operating system likely harbors a host of unnecessary files—temporary files, Recycle Bin contents, and even old Windows update remnants. Windows 11 includes a simple yet powerful feature known as Disk Cleanup. This tool helps streamline your device by eliminating these junk files, all while preserving your personal files and apps.
How to Use Disk Cleanup:

• Press Windows + S to open the search menu.
• Type "disk cleanup" and select the first result.
• Choose your primary drive from the drop-down menu and click OK.
• Hit the "Cleanup system files" button, then select your primary drive again and confirm with OK.
• Check the box next to the temporary files you wish to delete, review the descriptions, then click OK and Delete Files to finalize the process.

This straightforward mechanism is a great starting point for combating storage woes.

2. Enable Storage Sense​

Windows 11 features another nifty convenience called Storage Sense. This automated feature works quietly in the background to free up disk space by deleting temporary files, expelling empty Recycle Bin contents, and clearing old downloads.
Steps to Enable Storage Sense:

• Press Windows + I to open Settings, then navigate to System > Storage.
• Toggle on the Storage Sense switch.
• Click on Storage Sense to access configuration options.
• Ensure the box labeled "Keep Windows running smoothly by automatically cleaning up temporary system and app files" is checked.
• Choose how frequently you'd like Storage Sense to run (daily, weekly, monthly, or during low disk space).
• Fine-tune settings to automatically delete files from the Recycle Bin and Downloads folder at your preferred intervals.
• Click Run Storage Sense now to execute it immediately.

Expert Insight: Automating storage management with Storage Sense not only saves you time but also ensures your PC operates at optimal efficiency without overwhelming your focus.

3. Delete Unwanted Apps and User Accounts​

Software bloat is very real, and over time, all those apps you've accumulated—many of which may not even be in use—can crowd out your essential storage. Uninstalling unwanted apps is a quick win for immediate space relief.
To Uninstall Apps:

• Open the Settings app and go to the Apps tab.
• Click on Installed apps, and opt for Size (Large to small) from the Sort by drop-down.
• Identify the apps you no longer need, click the three dots next to an app, and choose Uninstall. Confirm the uninstallation when prompted.

Consider taking it a step further by removing user accounts that are no longer necessary. These can take up storage just by being present on your system!
Deleting User Accounts:

• Head to Accounts > Other users in Settings.
• Select the account you want to remove, click Remove, and confirm by hitting the Delete account and data button.

This proactive cleaning can unearth valuable space among those forgotten applications.

4. Find and Move Large Files​

Another angle you might consider involves large files that may be hogging your hard drive. It’s not uncommon for media files—think videos and photos—to take up a considerable chunk of your storage.
To Locate Large Files:

• Open File Explorer by pressing Windows + E and navigate to This PC.
• In the search bar, type "size " for files between 1 and 4 GB, or "size " for files exceeding 4 GB.
• Once these files are identified, you can either move them to a cloud storage service—like OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox—or transfer them to an external hard drive or USB stick.

Windows 11's Settings app also simplifies the process of cleaning out large files; check System > Storage > Cleanup recommendations for files that can be easily removed or transferred.
Expert Commentary: Utilizing cloud storage not only frees up local disk space but enhances file accessibility across devices, ensuring that your data is always at hand.

5. Compress with Compact OS Command-Line Tool​

Lastly, Windows 11 has a built-in feature called Compact OS that can compress system files and applications—an ingenious way to reclaim space without significantly slowing down the system.
How to Use Compact OS:

• Right-click the Start icon on the taskbar and select Terminal (Admin).
• Approve the User Account Control (UAC) prompt.
• Execute the command:

  compact.exe /compactOS

This compresses system files, and while it won’t clear mountains of space—usually around 2-3 GB—it serves as an effective supplemental method, especially on devices where storage space is at a premium. To reverse the process, simply enter the same command.

Recap​

In conclusion, freeing up storage space on your Windows 11 device doesn’t have to be an exhausting undertaking. By leveraging tools like Disk Cleanup and Storage Sense, and by taking proactive steps to delete unused apps and manage your files wisely, you can enhance your system's performance significantly. Moreover, features like Compact OS bring additional room for those who still need every last gigabyte. With these strategies, Windows users can regain control over their devices and enjoy a smoother, more efficient computing experience.
So, what do you think about these methods? Have you tried any of them? Share your experiences and additional tips in the comments below!
Source: SlashGear 5 Easy Ways To Free Up Storage Space On Windows 11