What am i doing here to fix the problem

If you are ever tired of “storage almost complete” warnings, you are not alone. My main drive fills rapidly as I can clean it, but I am finally dealing with the problem for good without losing anything.

4

Compressing and collection of files on outer hard drive

One of the most effective ways to manage storage is to compress and collect the files that I do not access often. Instead of removing old projects, photos, or videos, I compress them and take them to the external hard drive.

For compression, I mainly use 7-zip Due to its high compression ratio, especially when using the 7Z format. This creates small collection files, which saves the disc space and makes the file transfer faster. What is great about 7-Jip is that it is open-source and free to use, constantly improving with a large community of developers. I also use Zarchivar Before I move them to external hard drives, to make zip files on my Android smartphone.

When compressing the files on the outer drive, I have learned to avoid compressing the entire drive. While Windows provides options “compresses this drive to protect the disc space” in drive properties, I do not recommend using it on your main system drive as this system can give rise to volatility and poor performance. Instead, I selectively compress individual folders and files.

I rarely arrive for files, but want to keep (like old project archives or family photos), what I do here:

1. I choose the files I want to collect.

2. Right-click and use 7-Zip Addition in collection Option.

3. Choose a strong compression level (I usually use General For a good balance between compression time and file size).

4. Take the compressed file to my external storage.

I have learned through experience that not all file types are equally compressed. Already compressed files (eg JPGS, MP3S, and most video formats) will not go much further. Text documents, raw image files, and incompatible data are exceptionally well compressed.

I have also learned that it is more practical to create several small archives rather than a large -scale file while dealing with large collections of files. By organizing my archives based on material types such as images, videos, or documents – I can quickly find what I want every time without removing or transferring a huge collection. This approach makes my backup easier and saves time when I need to reach specific files later.

3

Transfer all big files to my NAS

After compressing my files, I either place them on the external hard drive or transfer them to my NAS (network attached storage), which I made using an old gaming laptop that I was around. Creating an individual NAS was surprisingly straightforward and is one of the most practical ways to reuse its barely working laptops. It runs on 2-Gy-Je Intel Core i5 CPU and 8GB RAM. The only hardware change was upgrading the storage drive. For the operating system, I installed Truenas, which offers flexible options for storage management and provides an easy-to-use interface. Of course, you can also get a prebtt NAS and save the setup on time.

Moving files in my NAS is simple thanks to network file sharing. On my Windows PC, I use the underlying SMB (server message block) protocol to reach your Truenas network shares directly through the File Explorer. This integration feels like working with any other folder on my computer, allowing me to pull and release large files or whole folders without any hassle. For transfer from your smartphone, I use CX File ExplorerWhich connects NAS using the same SMB protocol. This app offers an intuitive interface to browseing and move between my phone and NAS, making it easier to remove photos, videos or documents in a wireless manner.

I love the most about my NAS setup that provides flexibility. It acts as an extended collection, and I have also configured it to run the plex media server, giving me a private streaming platform. The system uses much lower power than having a full desktop running on 24/7, which is an additional bonus.

Before storing or transferring files, I make it a point to eliminate duplicate. Duplicate files not only take large amounts of storage space, but also reduce the performance of the system by creating unnecessary data to process your computer.

After trying many options, I settled Tie As a tool of my choice. Treesis includes a duplicate file finder which is both straight and effective. Duplicate search can be started from the main interface, allowing you to scan specific drives or folders for fruitless files. You can also choose different comparison filters, such as using the name, size, date, or file material for even more accuracy. While the Czechm-based comparison is slow, it ensures that only the true duplicate is flagged, reducing the risk of false positive.

What I like about the trees is its auxiliary filter, allowing me to search for files above a certain size or specific types, which makes the process faster and more targeted. Once the duplicate is found, I can again review the results, preview files, and remove them safely or store them.

During the scanning for duplicate, I follow the basic rules that I follow:

• Never scan the system folder (eg Windows or program files).

• First pay attention to data-thunder folders (downloads, documents, pictures).

• Always preview files before removing them to ensure that I am holding the correct version.

• Use the filter to narrow the discoveries by file type, size or date.

Using a duplicate finder, I was able to save the storage space on a large scale by removing duplicate photos, downloads, and backup copies, about which I forgot.

1

Use storage sense to wipe specific folders when storage is low

Storage sense is one of the windows features that should always be by default. This automatic tool helps prevent storage emergency by cleaning unnecessary files before hitting my drive from significant capacity.

The storage sense works on your system drive (usually C 🙂 and when your device is low at the disc, it can be configured to run automatically. To enable it, I go setting , System , storage And togle Storage meaning To But,

The storage makes the sense particularly useful, its ability to target specific types of files. I configured me to focus:

1. Temporary files and recycle bin (automatic cleaning after 30 days).

2. Downloaded files that have not been modified in 60 days.

3. Previous Windows installation (which can take 20+ GB after update).

I especially like that the sense of storage is non-invasive. This will not touch your required files or applications as it only removes temporary files and items that are safe to remove. For those concerned about losing important downloads, you can exclude specific folders from automatic cleanup or adjust time settings in your priority.

On my system, I have noticed that regular storage cleanliness stops sudden demonstration drops that used to come in contact with my drive’s ability. This active approach means that I rarely look at those “low disc space” warnings, and my computer maintains consistent performance.

By implementing these four strategies, I have changed my storage status from worrying about space for a continuous, reliable system that keeps my important files safe and accessible. With the right tools and habits, the management of storage is no longer a task – this is just a part of my routine, and my drive has never been fulfilled.