How to Remove Compressed Files

Compressed or "zipped" files are files in Windows that have been packaged and "compressed" to create a smaller file size for sending in emails, archiving, etc. Compressed files come in handy for downloadable items such as ebooks as well. Frequently, once they are "unzipped," compressed files can be removed, but many people are not sure how to access these files let alone how to remove them once they are done using them. Removing compressed files is not difficult if you understand how to do it properly.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Locate the compressed file you would like to remove. If you are unsure where it is located on your hard drive, you can search for it by clicking "Start" in the lower left corner of your screen (if you are using Vista, it is not labeled "Start," it is just the Windows Vista icon). Select "Search">>"All Files and Folders," enter the name of the file and click "Search."

2. Select the compressed file by clicking on it once you have located it. This can be done either directly from the folder the compressed file is located in or in the search window.

3. Press "Delete" on your keyboard. This will move the file to your Recycle Bin.

4. Click "Yes" when asked if you are sure you want to move your compressed file to the Recycle Bin.

5. Close any open windows and return to your desktop.

6. Right click on your Recycle Bin and select "Empty Recycle Bin" from the pop-up menu.

7. Click "Yes" when asked if you are sure you want to delete the compressed file. Your compressed file will now be deleted. Depending on the size of it, this may take a short time.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember to empty your Recycle Bin regularly to cut down on unnecessary utilization of computer resources like memory and hard drive space.
• Be careful what you delete from your computer as these files may not be recoverable.

References

• More on Windows from Microsoft