How to Delete Temporary Memory on a PC

As you use your computer---add/remove files, browse the Internet, download files---temporary files are stored on the computer for quicker access. Web browsers often keep a folder of temporary files for quicker loading/viewing of web pages. Applications will move data off the hard drive to the RAM (random access memory) for quicker access while preforming tasks. Often, if there is not enough allocated memory, the applications will create temporary files. These files are not always cleaned out automatically. The buildup of these temporary files can lead to a slowing of the computer's performance.

Things You'll Need

• Microsoft Windows

Instructions

1. Open "Disk Cleanup." Disk Cleanup can be found within "Programs > Accessories > System Tools" accessed via the Start menu.

2. Select the option to clean up all users files. You will need the administrator password. If you do not have access to the administrator account, simply select your own account.

3. Select the drive you want to clean up. Most typically, the C: drive.

4. Select all available options of files to clear out. Most importantly, select "Temporary Files" and "Temporary Internet Files." Disk Cleanup will calculate the amount of space gained from the clearing of these temporary files. Click "OK" to begin.

5. Click "Delete files" to confirm the action and delete all the temporary files from the computer's memory and hard drive.

References

• Microsoft: Delete Files Using Disk Cleanup
• Appalachian State University: Disk Cleanup
• Microsoft: Delete Temporary Internet Files