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If your computer desktop looks a little cluttered and you’re noticing some performance slowing down, it may be time to clean it up. The best way to keep things running smoothly is to make sure you’re running the most updated version of Windows (you’d be surprised how many people’s devices are several updates behind). But if you’re up-to-date, there are other things you can do to optimize.
Also: Don’t want to upgrade to Windows 11? You don’t have to do this, but here’s what you need to know
Windows has some useful utilities that can free up some space (and they’re already on your PC). These utilities are not meant for large-scale repairs, but can help make things run faster by reducing excess weight.
Regular use of a computer can result in stored cache files becoming corrupted and outdated, causing operational glitches and slow boot times. Clearing this cache and other temporary files can improve performance and make things run better. This way.
How to Use Windows Cleanup Recommendations
Windows 11 can identify large files, unused apps, and system files that can be safely deleted. This is a good place to start when optimizing your disk space. Here’s how to access these tools:
1. Click Start button > Settings
2. System > Storage
3. Scroll down to “Cleaning Recommendations”
This will bring temporary files to your Downloads folder and Recycle Bin. Nuke these files can free up several GB of disk space. Before doing this, make sure there is nothing you need in your Downloads folder, as it may contain essential files.
Other recommendations for deletion will appear on this screen, including large or unused files, which Windows will bring to your attention.
Also: How to upgrade your ‘incompatible’ Windows 10 PC to Windows 11 – 2 free options
Many of the larger files it suggests will be video clips or large image files, which you may want to review before deleting.
At the bottom, Windows will identify apps you rarely (or never use) that you’ve considered deleting. If you no longer need an app, you can delete it and reclaim disk space.
How to Use Windows Disk Cleanup Utility
Disk Cleanup is another utility that is accessible regardless of your Windows version. The easiest way to open it is to search for “disk cleanup” in the search bar and bring up the window.
Also: How to Create a Windows Recovery Drive in 4 Easy Steps – Before It’s Too Late
The utility will then identify temporary Internet files, setup log files, and various cache files that can be safely deleted to reclaim a few GB of storage space (hey, every little bit helps). Check the boxes of the file types you are ready to delete and click OK. it’s that easy.
How to clear your PC’s location cache
Some data will be created when your PC syncs to a new location. You can safely clear your device’s location cache in Windows to free up more space. This way:
1. Press the Start menu and click “Settings”
2. Click “Privacy & Security”
3. Scroll down to the section titled “Location History” and click “Clear”
How to flush DNS cache
If your Internet browsing speed isn’t what it used to be, one thing that can help speed things up is flushing the DNS cache. This task is quite easy to do with one command. This way:
1. Press Windows Key + R to bring up the Run command window
2. Type run in command prompt ipconfig/flushdns and press enter
Also: Can’t upgrade Windows 10 PC? You Have 5 Options – And You Have to Act Now
Optimizing Windows requires good file management habits, and monitoring file creep is important. These cleaning utilities may seem small in impact, but over time they help keep things running smoothly.
