Windows 11 24H2: Disk Cleanup Changes and Storage Tips

With the recent release of Windows 11 version 24H2, users have encountered a puzzling situation regarding disk cleanup operations. Unlike previous iterations, where a quick cleanup post-update could free up gigabytes of valuable disk space, version 24H2 seems to be holding onto more than just a few pesky files. If you've noticed that the Disk Cleanup tool is no longer relieving you of those old update files, you’re not alone. Let’s dive into the technical intricacies behind these changes and what they mean for your storage space.

The Shift in Update Management​

Historically, after updating to a new Windows version, the system would automatically cull any outdated update files, allowing users to reclaim significant storage. This was particularly welcome news for those who constantly teetered on the edge of their disk space limits. However, with version 24H2, this functionality has been sidelined.

What Has Changed?​

The culprit behind this storage conundrum is rooted in Microsoft’s new methodology in handling updates. Previously, Windows updates were cumulative, meaning each update included all changes from its baseline release. As you can imagine, this added up over time, consuming considerable space.
Enter checkpoint updates, introduced in Windows 11 24H2. These updates create new baselines specifically for a certain feature update. This adjustment offers a dual-edge sword advantage: cumulative updates are now smaller since they reference a more recent baseline. However, because the baseline keeps changing, some leftover update data—over 8 gigabytes in some cases—remains intact on user systems, and simply cannot be purged through normal cleanup protocols.

The User Experience: Confusion Afoot​

Many users are left scratching their heads. After hitting delete on those extensive files through a cleanup app, they are greeted with the unyielding presence of what seems like unnecessary data. Unfortunately, without clear communication from Microsoft about this alteration in functionality, many are likening it to a bug, leading to frustration as these remnants of previous updates consume storage capacity.

How to Manage Temporary Files in Windows 11 24H2​

In light of this shift, users still have options for initiating cleanup processes, albeit with varying effectiveness. Here are the primary methods to try:

1. Using the Settings App​

• Open Start, then select Settings.
• Navigate to System > Storage.
• Click on Temporary Files.
• You will see a breakdown of the different temporary file types on your system and can choose to delete some or all.

2. Classic Disk Cleanup Tool​

This venerable tool might soon be phased out, but for now, it's still available:

• From the Start menu, type Disk Cleanup and select the result.
• Ensure Drive C: is highlighted and click OK.
• Activate the Clean up system files option.
• You will see a list of locations housing temporary files; check the ones you wish to delete and click OK.

This tool is still functional for many tasks, but be aware that it may eventually be superseded by the Settings cleanup tool.

Final Thoughts: A Trade-off for Smaller Updates?​

The question emerges: do users favor smaller update packages at the cost of extra disk space, or would they prefer the older method of more comprehensive cleanup? This decision reflects a balancing act between system efficiency and storage management.
Engaging with the community: What’s your experience with this change? Are you finding yourself with more occupied space post-update? Leave your comments below; your insights could be invaluable to other users experiencing the same confusion!
As Microsoft works to better communicate and potentially rectify this situation, users are encouraged to keep an eye on updates and engage with feedback channels they provide. Until then, it seems we all might just have to get a bit more creative with our disk management strategies.
Source: gHacks Technology News Windows 11 24H2: Cleanup is no longer deleting all temporary files