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How I Keep My Windows PC Running Smoothly: A Full-Stack Tutor’s Guide

masteringfullstack December 27, 2024

Hello Besties! Welcome to My Digital Diary

Hi everyone! I hope you’re all doing well. As a full-stack tutor, I often meet people who use their computers daily for work or study. One of the most common issues they face is a slow computer. It can be so frustrating, right? Whether it’s because your computer is getting older or you’ve been using it for a few years without maintenance, there are ways to give it a fresh start!

As a Windows user myself, this guide is specifically tailored for those using Windows computers. If you’re looking for a quick and safe way to clean your PC without harming your system, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into it and make your computer feel like new again!

Cleaning Files on Windows: Give Your PC a Fresh Start

Over time, our PCs collect a ton of unnecessary files that can slow things down and fill up storage space. Whether you're looking to get back some disk space or just want your computer to run faster, cleaning up temporary files and other junk can really make a difference. But before you dive in, let’s first take a look at what these files are, what exactly gets removed, and whether there are any downsides to doing a cleanup.

What Are Temporary Files?

Temporary files are just that—files that your computer and apps create temporarily to store information while you’re using them. For example:

  • Cached Data: Files that help programs load faster.
  • Logs: Records of what the system or apps have been doing (sometimes errors or activities).
  • Installer Files: Leftover files after installing or updating software.

These files are super helpful when they’re first created, but once the job’s done, they can just hang around, taking up space and slowing things down.

What Will Be Removed?

When you clean up your PC, you might remove things like:

  • Temporary System Files: Data stored by Windows for short-term use.
  • Browser Cache and Cookies: These help load your favorite sites faster, but they also take up space.
  • Recycle Bin Items: Files you’ve deleted but haven’t fully removed yet.
  • Old Log Files: Mostly used for debugging, but not really needed after a while.
  • Leftover Program Files: Files from apps you’ve uninstalled.

Note: Be careful, though—some files might still be in use by programs, and deleting the wrong ones can mess with your settings. Always double-check before removing anything important.

Are There Any Disadvantages?

While cleaning your PC is generally a great idea, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • You Could Lose Useful Data: For example, browser cookies might store login info or preferences you use often.
  • Initial Slowness: After clearing the cache, apps or websites might take longer to load the first time they’re used again, as they rebuild their data.
  • Accidental Deletion: Deleting the wrong files could affect your programs or settings, so always be careful.

How to Safely Clean Files on Windows

Here are some simple steps to clean your PC without causing any issues:

1. Clear Temporary Files

Here’s how to clear temporary files safely:

Using Run Command

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.

  2. Type the following commands one at a time and press Enter:

  • temp
  • %temp%

  • prefetch

  1. A folder will pop up for each one. Just select all the files in each folder (Ctrl + A), and hit Delete. Some files may be in use, and you might need administrative permissions to delete them.

2. Use Disk Cleanup Utility

The Disk Cleanup utility is a built-in Windows tool that helps remove unnecessary files.

Steps to Use Disk Cleanup

  1. Press Win + R, type cleanmgr, and hit Enter.

  2. Select the drive you want to clean (usually C:) and click OK.

  3. Check categories like Temporary files, Recycle Bin, and Downloaded Program Files.

  4. Click OK and confirm the deletion.

3. Command Prompt for Advanced Cleaning

If you’re comfortable with the Command Prompt, this is a quick way to clean:

Steps

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator (search for "cmd" in the Start menu, then right-click and select "Run as Administrator").

  2. Run the following command to delete all temporary files: 

    del /q /f /s %TEMP%\*

    This command deletes files in the %TEMP% directory.

4. Empty the Recycle Bin

Deleted files remain in the Recycle Bin until it is emptied, continuing to take up space.

Steps

  1. Right-click on the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop.

  2. Select Empty Recycle Bin.

  3. Confirm the deletion.

5. Uninstall Unused Applications

Old and unused applications can take up significant disk space.

Steps

  1. Open Settings (press Win + I).

  2. Go to Apps > Apps & Features.

  3. Browse the list of installed applications, select the ones you don’t use, and click Uninstall.

6. Remove Temporary Internet Files

Browsers store temporary files and cache data to speed up browsing. Clearing these files can free up space.

For Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome

  1. Open your browser.

  2. Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Clear Browsing Data.

  3. Select Cached images and files, and other data you want to clear.

  4. Click Clear Data.

7. Perform a Full System Cleanup

If you want to go further:

  • Use third-party cleanup tools like CCleaner (download from a trusted source).
  • Defragment your hard drive or optimize your SSD (search "Defragment and Optimize Drives" in the Start menu).

Benefits of Cleaning Your PC

  • Improved Performance:Your system will run faster with fewer temporary files and less clutter. 
  • More Storage Space: You’ll reclaim valuable space for important files.
  • Better Organization: A clean PC is easier to manage and maintain.

Regularly cleaning up your Windows PC ensures it remains efficient and ready to tackle everyday tasks. Take these simple steps today and enjoy the difference!

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