How to Free Up Storage Space on Your Computer

Why Free Up Space?

When storage is low:

• Your computer runs slowly
• You can't save new files
• Programs may crash
• Updates can't install

Checking Available Space

Windows

• Open File Explorer
• Click This PC
• See storage bars under each drive

Mac

• Click the Apple menu
• Click About This Mac
• Click Storage

Quick Wins to Free Space

1. Empty the Recycle Bin

Deleted files still take up space until you empty the bin:

Windows:

• Right-click the Recycle Bin on your desktop
• Click Empty Recycle Bin

Mac:

• Right-click the Trash in the Dock
• Click Empty Trash

2. Clear Downloads Folder

Old downloads accumulate:

• Open your Downloads folder
• Delete files you no longer need
• Empty the Recycle Bin

3. Uninstall Unused Programs

Windows:

• Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps
• Find programs you don't use
• Click the three dots > Uninstall

Mac:

• Open Finder > Applications
• Drag unused apps to Trash

Using Built-in Cleanup Tools

Windows Disk Cleanup

• Open File Explorer
• Right-click your main drive (usually C:)
• Click Properties
• Click Disk Cleanup
• Check items to delete
• Click OK

Storage Sense (Windows)

Set up automatic cleanup:

• Go to Settings > System > Storage
• Turn on Storage Sense
• Click Configure to customise what gets deleted

Mac Storage Management

• Click Apple menu > About This Mac > Storage
• Click Manage
• Review recommendations

Use Cloud Storage

Save files to OneDrive instead of your computer:

• Files are stored in the cloud
• Access from any device
• Frees up local space
• Files are backed up automatically

OneDrive Files On-Demand

Keep files in the cloud and download only when needed:

• Right-click the OneDrive icon in the system tray
• Click Settings > Sync and backup
• Enable Files On-Demand

What NOT to Delete

Never delete:

• Windows or System folders
• Program Files folders
• Anything you don't recognise
• Work files without backing them up

When unsure, ask IT.

Need More Help?

If you've tried these steps and still need space, contact IT. You may need:

• A larger hard drive
• External storage
• Different storage solution

Need Help?

For storage help, contact helpdesk@netlumait.com.au or call 1300 521 162.