How to Free Up 10GB of Space on Windows Without Deleting Files

Is your Windows PC running out of storage even though you haven’t saved many files? You’re not alone. Windows secretly stores hidden system files, temporary data, and cached updates that can consume 10GB or more over time. The good news? You can safely free up space without deleting your personal files.

In this guide, you’ll learn simple Windows tricks to reclaim disk space and improve system performance.

1. Use Windows Storage Sense (Quick Win)

Windows includes a built-in tool called Storage Sense that automatically removes unnecessary files.

Steps:

1. Open Settings → System → Storage

2. Turn on Storage Sense

3. Click Temporary files

4. Select items like:

• Temporary files
• Windows Update Cleanup
• Delivery Optimization Files

1. Click Remove files

This alone can free 3–5GB instantly.

2. Clean System Files Using Disk Cleanup

Disk Cleanup removes hidden system files most users never touch.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type cleanmgr, press Enter

2. Select your C: drive

3. Click Clean up system files

4. Check:

• Previous Windows installations
• System error memory dump files
• Windows Update cleanup

1. Click OK

This can recover up to 8–10GB, especially after updates.

3. Disable Hibernation (Free 4–6GB)

Windows creates a hibernation file (hiberfil.sys) equal to your RAM size.

To disable it:

1. Open Command Prompt (Admin)

Type:

powercfg -h off

1. Press Enter

This immediately frees several GBs without affecting sleep mode.

4. Clear Windows Update Cache

Windows keeps old update files even after installation.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc

2. Stop Windows Update

Go to:

C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download

1. Delete all files inside

2. Restart Windows Update service

Safe and effective for long-term users.

5. Remove Temporary Files Manually

Shortcut trick:

• Press Windows + R
• Type %temp%
• Delete all files

This clears junk created by apps and browsers.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to delete photos, videos, or apps to free up storage. By cleaning hidden Windows system files, you can safely reclaim 10GB or more, speed up your PC, and reduce system errors.

👉 Pro Tip: Run these steps once every month to keep your Windows PC fast and clutter-free.