How to Delete Backup Files in Windows 10

Applications

Backing up your operating system is always a smart choice, as it gives you the opportunity to save and restore any files you might have on your computer in case anything goes wrong with the device, without losing much or any of your data.

However, one big disadvantage of this process is the loss of valuable space, as system backup files can quickly fill up your storage space, particularly when you’re working with hard drives of smaller sizes.

So, if you’d like to delete some backup files from your Windows 10 device that aren’t necessary to store anymore, here is a quick guide that might help:

Removing the Windows File History

Windows 10 generally has a more efficient backup system than older OS versions, thanks to a great built-in feature called File History that automatically backs up your device. And even though that often means that more storage space is lost, it also gives you the opportunity to effortlessly delete any unnecessary data. Here’s how:

  1. Open the Start menu (Windows icon) and navigate to the Control Panel.
  2. In the window that pops up, click on System & Security, and then choose the File History option.
  3. On the following page, press Advanced settings in the sidebar on the left.
  4. Under the Versions segment, press the blue Clean Up Versions tab.
  5. Now, simply select the period of time from which you’d like to delete backup files, and then press the Clean Up button.
  6. Finally, press OK once the cleanup has successfully finished.

Deleting the System Restore points

The System Restore option is what existed before File History, and it’s still available on Windows 10 today. This feature is used for making restore points when it comes to any larger OS updates. If you wish to delete the System Restore points to clear up space as well, just follow the steps below:

  1. Click the Windows + R keys at the same time using your keyboard. This action will load the Run window.
  2. Here, type in ‘systempropertiesprotection’ and then press the Enter key. This action will load a new System Properties window.
  3. In this window, click on ‘Configure…’ located under the System Protection tab.
  4. Next, click on Delete to clean up the System Restore points that were saved.
  5. Finally, click on the OK button once the process has successfully finished.

And that’s it; everything you need to know about deleting unnecessary files from your Windows 10 device and creating more valuable space on your computer.

Related Posts