Getting more storage on Windows 11 involves a few simple steps like cleaning up unused files, uninstalling unnecessary apps, and using external storage options. By following these steps, you can free up valuable space on your computer and improve its performance.
How to Get More Storage on Windows 11
This section will guide you through the steps to free up space and boost your storage on Windows 11. It’s easier than you think and will help keep your system running smoothly.
Step 1: Clean Up Disk Space
Open the “Storage” settings in Windows 11 and use the built-in cleanup tools to delete unused files and temporary files.
Windows 11 has a handy tool called “Storage Sense” that automatically cleans up unnecessary files. Go to Settings > System > Storage, and you’ll find an option to enable Storage Sense. Once you turn it on, it will automatically delete temporary files and files in your recycle bin that have been there for over 30 days.
Step 2: Uninstall Unnecessary Apps
Go to the “Apps & Features” section under Settings and uninstall apps you no longer need.
Removing apps you don’t use is a quick way to free up space. Head over to Settings > Apps > Apps & Features, and you’ll see a list of all your installed apps. Click on the ones you don’t need and select “Uninstall.” You’ll be surprised at how much space you can reclaim.
Step 3: Use External Storage
Connect an external hard drive or USB drive to move files you don’t use frequently to an external storage device.
If you have files, like videos or photos, that you don’t need to access regularly, consider moving them to an external drive. This can free up loads of space on your main drive, making your computer faster. External drives are relatively inexpensive and can provide a significant storage boost.
Step 4: Manage System Restore Points
Access the “System Protection” settings and delete older system restore points to save space.
Windows 11 creates restore points, which can take up a lot of space over time. Go to Control Panel > System and Security > System > System Protection. Here, you can manage and delete older restore points, freeing up even more room.
Step 5: Use Cloud Storage
Sign up for cloud storage services like OneDrive or Google Drive to store files online and free up local storage.
Cloud storage is a fantastic way to keep your files accessible without taking up space on your local drive. Sign up for services like OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox, and move your files there. This not only frees up space but also keeps your files safe and accessible from anywhere.
After completing these steps, your computer will have more available storage space. You should notice improved performance and speed, making your Windows 11 experience smoother.
Tips for Getting More Storage on Windows 11
- Regularly empty your Recycle Bin to ensure deleted files don’t take up space.
- Clear your browser cache to free up space that web data might occupy.
- Compress large files to save space without deleting them.
- Disable hibernation mode if you don’t use it; it can take up a lot of space.
- Update your software regularly to avoid unnecessary cache and temporary files.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check my current storage usage on Windows 11?
Go to Settings > System > Storage. Here, you’ll see a breakdown of what’s taking up space on your hard drive.
Can I delete the Windows.old folder?
Yes, but only if you’re sure you won’t need to revert to a previous version of Windows. Use Disk Cleanup to remove it safely.
Is it safe to use third-party disk cleanup tools?
Generally, yes, but make sure to use reputable software. Always backup your data before using any third-party tool.
How much space should I leave free on my hard drive?
It’s recommended to keep at least 15% of your total storage free for optimal performance.
What can I do if my main drive is completely full?
Consider upgrading to a larger hard drive or SSD, or use external storage options to offload some data.
Summary
- Clean Up Disk Space
- Uninstall Unnecessary Apps
- Use External Storage
- Manage System Restore Points
- Use Cloud Storage
Conclusion
Freeing up storage on Windows 11 might seem like a daunting task, but it’s pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to a more efficient and faster computer. Don’t let storage issues slow you down—take action now and see the difference it makes. For further reading, you might want to explore more advanced storage solutions or look into upgrading your hardware. These steps will keep your Windows 11 running smoothly and efficiently, ensuring you get the most out of your system. Happy computing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.