Windows 8 In Depth

Deleting Unnecessary Files

If you find that a hard disk volume is getting low on free space, you should delete any unneeded files and programs. Windows 8 comes with a Disk Cleanup utility that enables you to remove certain types of files quickly and easily. Before discussing this utility, let’s look at a few methods you can use to perform a spring cleaning on your hard disk by hand:

• Uninstall programs you don’t use—With the new Windows Store handily located on the Start screen, it’s easier than ever to download new software for a trial run. Unfortunately, that also means it’s easier than ever to have unused programs cluttering your hard disk. Uninstall these and other rejected applications.

• Delete downloaded program archives—Your hard disk ...