How do I clean Windows 10?

Cleaning Windows 10 involves optimizing your system to free up storage space, remove unnecessary files, and improve overall performance. This process helps your PC run smoother and faster.

1. Delete Temporary Files with Disk Cleanup

One of the most effective ways to free up space is by removing temporary files, system logs, and other junk files that accumulate over time.

To use Disk Cleanup:

1. In the search box on the taskbar, type "disk cleanup" and select Disk Cleanup from the list of results.
2. Select the drive you want to clean up (usually C:), and then select OK.
3. Under "Files to delete," select the file types you want to remove. You can select an item to get a description of the file type. Common items to select include:
   • Temporary Internet Files
   • Windows temporary files
   • Recycle Bin
   • Temporary files
   • Thumbnails
   • Delivery Optimization Files
4. For even more options, you can select Clean up system files at the bottom left of the Disk Cleanup window. This allows you to delete previous Windows installations, Windows Update Cleanup files, and more, which can free up significant space.
5. After making your selections, select OK. Confirm the deletion when prompted.

2. Automate Cleanup with Storage Sense

Windows 10 includes a built-in feature called Storage Sense that can automatically free up space by getting rid of files you don't need, like temporary files and content in your Recycle Bin.

To enable and configure Storage Sense:

1. Go to Settings > System > Storage.
2. Under "Storage Sense," toggle the switch to On.
3. Click Configure Storage Sense or run it now to set up how often it runs, what files it deletes, and when to delete files from your Recycle Bin and Downloads folder. You can also run it manually from this screen.

3. Uninstall Unnecessary Applications

Over time, you might install applications you no longer use, which consume valuable storage space and can sometimes run in the background, slowing your system down.

To uninstall programs:

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
2. Review the list of installed applications. Sort them by size or installation date to identify large or unused programs.
3. Click on an application you wish to remove and select Uninstall. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the process.

4. Manage Startup Programs

Many applications are configured to start automatically when Windows launches. While some are essential, too many can significantly increase your boot time and consume system resources in the background.

To manage startup programs:

1. Right-click on the taskbar and select Task Manager, or press Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
2. Go to the Startup tab.
3. Review the list of programs and their "Startup impact."
4. To prevent a program from launching with Windows, select it and click Disable. Only disable programs you are certain are not critical system components.

5. Run System File Checker (SFC)

Corrupted system files can lead to instability and performance issues. The System File Checker (SFC) is a Windows utility that can scan for and restore corrupted system files.

To run SFC:

1. Type "cmd" in the search box on the taskbar.
2. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
3. In the Command Prompt window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
4. Let the scan complete. It will attempt to find and repair any corrupted system files.

6. Keep Windows Updated

Regularly updating Windows 10 is crucial for security, stability, and performance. Updates often include bug fixes, performance enhancements, and new features that can improve your system's efficiency.

To check for updates:

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates. Install any available updates.

7. Optimize Drives (Defragment)

For traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs), files can become fragmented, meaning parts of a single file are scattered across different areas of the disk. Defragmenting rearranges these parts to improve read/write speeds. Solid State Drives (SSDs) do not require defragmentation; in fact, it can reduce their lifespan. Windows automatically optimizes SSDs differently.

To optimize your drives:

1. In the search box on the taskbar, type "defragment" and select Defragment and Optimize Drives.
2. Select the drive you wish to optimize.
3. Click Optimize.

8. Consider a Windows Reset or Fresh Start

If your Windows 10 system is significantly bogged down, or you're experiencing persistent issues that can't be resolved by the above methods, a full reset can be a powerful cleaning tool. This reinstalls Windows, giving you a fresh start.

• Reset this PC: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery. Under "Reset this PC," you have options to "Keep my files" (removes apps and settings but keeps personal files) or "Remove everything" (a complete wipe).
• Fresh Start: This option (found in Windows Security) is similar to "Reset this PC" but specifically installs a clean copy of Windows, often without pre-installed bloatware from your PC manufacturer.

Regularly performing these cleaning and optimization steps can significantly improve the performance and longevity of your Windows 10 PC.