Computer out of storage? Free up space safely

Windows 11

1. Settings → System → Storage shows what's using space.
2. Open Temporary files and remove them. Check what's in Downloads before ticking it.
3. Turn on Storage Sense to clean up automatically.
4. Check Cleanup recommendations for large or unused files and apps.

Mac

Apple menu → System Settings → General → Storage. Use the recommendations, and check Documents for large files.

Where the space usually goes

• Downloads: installers and files you only needed once
• Photos and videos: move them to an external drive or cloud storage
• Old phone backups
• Games you no longer play

Don't delete

Anything in C:\Windows, Program Files, or files you don't recognize. When unsure, move it to an external drive instead.

Always running out?

A bigger SSD is an affordable upgrade, and everything can be copied across.