If you’re using an older Windows computer, you’ve probably found yourself running low on disk space. You’ll know the signs: A hard drive that’s at or near capacity will slow down, and your apps will freeze and crash more frequently. It’s a frustrating scenario that makes even the simplest tasks on your PC feel impossible to complete.
The fix is obvious — you need to clean up your drive — but you may have a difficult time deciding exactly which files to get rid of. Fortunately, Windows 11 makes it easy to delete the files that you don’t need and free up some space on your computer.
Instead of downloading third-party software to free up disk space, Windows 11 has a few settings you can configure to quickly delete temporary, system files and old downloads you might not need.Â
And if you’re worried about getting rid of important files, don’t fret — Windows 11 will help you decide what to get rid of to improve your PC’s performance.
If you want to learn more, check out more features we love on Windows 11. You should also read about the best desktop computers this year.
Enable Storage Sense to make Windows 11 automatically free up space.
To turn on Storage Sense, simply toggle it on here. If you click the setting, you can configure several features:
- Run Storage Sense: Run Storage Sense during low disk space (default) or every day, week or month.
- Delete files in my recycle bin if they have been there for over: Choose 1 day, 14 days, 30 days (default) or 60 days.
- Delete files in my Downloads folder if they haven’t been opened for more than: Choose never (default), 1 day, 14 days, 30 days or 60 days.
These Storage Sense settings can help you limit which files are removed, and when they’re removed, so that you don’t have to worry about any important files getting wiped from your computer.
Watch this: Windows 11 helps you get rid of unused apps and extend your PC’s battery life
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