Free Up Tons of Space on Your Computer with One Simple Setting, No Need to Delete Anything

Freeing up storage space on your computer doesn't always require deleting files.

Most people use their computers for more than just browsing the internet; they also store important files such as photos, videos, music, documents, and movies. These files can quickly consume most of the available storage, slowing down the device significantly. While it's a good idea to back up your data to an external drive, you might not want to delete the original files from your computer. In that case, you'll need another way to free up space.

If you're using a desktop, laptop, or tablet running Windows, try this little known setting that can help free up space without needing to remove anything important.

This option isn't widely known but doesn't require you to be a tech expert to use it. Start by opening Windows Settings. You can access this from the Start menu or simply press the Windows + I keys. Go to "System" and then select "Storage." Here, activate "Storage Sense." This feature isn't enabled by default on most computers, so you'll need to manually turn it on if you want to use it.

Storage Sense will automatically clean up unnecessary items, such as temporary files and items in the Recycle Bin, when your storage is running low. Before enabling it, check your Recycle Bin to ensure you won't lose anything you need.

To immediately run Storage Sense or adjust its settings, click "Configure Storage Sense or run it now." You can set how often it runs and empties the Recycle Bin to better control deleted files.

By default, Storage Sense only cleans the system drive where Windows is installed. To clean other drives, go back to the System/Storage menu, and under "More storage settings," select "View storage usage on other drives."

If you use Microsoft OneDrive, Storage Sense can also help manage cloud files that are accessible on your device. Files aren't permanently deleted, they just disappear from your computer but remain available online. You can set a timeframe for how long unopened files should stay on your device before becoming online only. Sign in to OneDrive and adjust the settings under "Content will become online only if not opened for more than..."