How to Clean out Unwanted Files Hidden on Your Hard Drive

For all versions of Windows -- Be very careful when you follow these instructions because, if you delete critical files needed to run your programs or your system, you could find that some programs no longer work. (A tip for Windows XP users: XP will let you delete critical system files, but will then replace them.)

If this Find/Search process feels a tad advanced, if you're new to computers, step carefully. Once you've become experienced and confident, it's a great way to root out old file clutter.

Another neat trick is to find all the large files on your computer. In Windows 9x, use the Find (or Search) feature as before, but ignore the Name & Location tab and go straight to the Advanced tab.

On the Advanced tab, leave the of Type box as All Files and Folders, but set the Size is: box to At least and then 1000 KB. (See picture.)

1000 KB is about 1 MB. Of course you could go higher - start at, say, larger than 3 MB or 3000 KB.

Then click Find Now and the system will find all files that are bigger than the size you specified.

(See above for this file search size tip in Windows XP.)

This allows you to locate hidden files that are pretty darn big. I sometimes use this to find large music or movie files that are squirreled away on the hard drive. Once you have a list, delete the ones you don't need. Again, be careful you do not remove files you do need; if you're not sure, don't.

A final bit of housekeeping: After you do this exercise, be sure to empty your Recycle Bin.

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