How can I free a full C: drive and reduce slowdowns?

Possible solutions

Choose the method that matches your situation. Start with the simplest suitable option and check the result. If the problem is fixed, you do not need to continue with the other methods.

1. Review temporary files before removal

   Do not select every category without checking what it contains.

   Steps to follow

   1. Open Settings > System > Storage and wait for category sizes to load. Note the free space on C:.
   2. Open Temporary files and read each suggested category's description. Select only content you genuinely no longer need.
   3. Review Downloads and the Recycle Bin yourself first. Do not remove the previous Windows installation if you still need the option to roll back.
   4. Remove the selected files, wait for completion and check free space again. Do not manually delete the Windows or Program Files folders.

2. Move large personal files and configure maintenance

   Moving files to another folder on C: does not free drive space.

   Steps to follow

   1. Sort files by size in your Videos and Downloads folders. Decide which ones to keep on another physical drive.
   2. Copy the selected files first and open them at the destination. Remove unwanted originals only after verifying the copies.
   3. Open Storage Sense in Storage settings and review automatic deletion periods. Leave Downloads set to Never if you do not want automatic deletion there.
   4. Check free space again after a normal workday. If it quickly disappears, identify the growing category rather than repeatedly deleting folders indiscriminately.