Optimizing storage helps your Windows computer run more smoothly and efficiently, while also making room for important files. Here are 5 simple settings to help you do just that!
1. Enable storage sense to automatically manage capacity
Temporary files, old downloads, and the Recycle Bin often take up space. Instead of using Disk Cleanup manually, let Storage Sense clean it up automatically.
How to do:
- Press Win + i to open Settings > System > Storage .
- Turn on the Storage Sense switch in the Storage Management section.
Images 1 of 5 Settings to Optimize Storage on Windows - Click Storage Sense to customize the cleanup schedule (e.g. weekly) and set how often files are deleted from Downloads or the Recycle Bin.
Images 2 of 5 Settings to Optimize Storage on Windows
2. Change the default save location of the folder
To allocate space efficiently, you can move the default folders (like Downloads, Videos) to another drive (for example, from C: to D:).
How to do:
- Open File Explorer with Win + E > Right-click on the folder (eg Downloads ) > select Properties .
Images 3 of 5 Settings to Optimize Storage on Windows - Select the Location tab > click Move > select a new folder on another drive > click Apply .
Images 4 of 5 Settings to Optimize Storage on Windows - Select Yes to move all files to the new location.
3. Turn off hibernation to delete the hiberfil.sys file
If you don't use hibernation, you can disable it to delete the hiberfil.sys file (which usually takes up several GB).
How to do:
Open Command Prompt with admin rights > Enter command:
powercfg -h off
To re-enable it later, use the command:
powercfg -h on
4. Reduce System Restore size
System Restore can take up to 10% of your disk space. You can adjust this to save space:
Press Win + S > Find System Restore > Select Create a Restore Point .
In the System Protection tab , select the drive with System Restore turned on > click Configure > drag the Max Usage slider down to 1-2%.
5. Compress the operating system with compact os
If your hard drive is small (under 128GB), enable Compact OS to compress system files, saving 2-3GB.
How to do:
1. Open Command Prompt with admin rights > check Compact OS status:
compact /compactos:query
If recommended, enable with the command:
COMPACT.EXE /CompactOS:always
To disable later (if upgrading hard drive), use command:
COMPACT.EXE /CompactOS:never
Additional Notes
Additionally, you can also:
- Deleting large files, uninstalling unused software, or cloud storage also helps free up space.
- Check Storage Sense regularly to maintain system performance.
With these 5 simple steps, you will maximize your Windows storage!
Good luck!