How to Remove Unwanted Files Stored on a Hard Drive in Windows XP

Deleting unwanted files from Windows XP frees up memory and hard-drive space

As you continue to use your Windows XP computer, you find that your hard drive becomes clogged with a number of files that consume memory and hard-drive space. These files begin to slow down your computer. Removing unwanted files from your Windows XP system is an essential computer-maintenance step that not only boosts speed and performance but also leaves remaining files organized. Delete unwanted files from your hard drive in minutes.

Instructions

1. Select the file you want to delete. Press the Delete key. Click "Yes" in the "Confirm File Delete" dialog box. The file is sent to the Recycle Bin.

2. Click the Windows "Start" menu if you do not know where the file you want to delete is located. Click "Search" to launch the search tool. Select the "All Files and Folders" option and select the "C:" drive in the "Look in" box. Select any other option you want to use to narrow the search.

3. Type the name of the file you want to delete in the search box and click "Search." You should see the search results in the right pane. Click the file you want to delete and press the Delete key. Click "Yes" in the "Confirm File Delete" dialog box. The file is sent to the Recycle Bin.

4. Right click the Recycle Bin and click "Empty Recycle Bin" to delete the files permanently.

References

• Microsoft Support: Delete files you don't need anymore