Free up space on your computer

Safe ways to clear room when storage is nearly full.

Updated September 21, 2026

  1. Open Settings, choose System, then Storage. Look at what is using the space.
  2. Select Temporary files, tick Recycle Bin, then select Remove files. Leave Downloads unticked unless you have checked that folder.
  3. Turn on Storage Sense on the same page, so Windows clears temporary files on its own.
  4. Open your Downloads folder and delete installers and old files you no longer need.
  5. Move big files you want to keep to OneDrive. See What the OneDrive icons mean for how to save space there too.
Careful

Do not delete folders you do not recognize, especially Windows and Program Files.

Good to know

If space keeps disappearing, tell us. A program may be filling the drive.