The Windows cleanup routine that takes five minutes a month
Skip the registry cleaners. Three built-in tools do almost everything they claim to.
Start with built-in storage tools
Open Settings, then System and Storage to see where space is going. Temporary files can usually be removed safely, but read the list before confirming so you don't delete downloads you meant to keep.
Turn on Storage Sense if you want Windows to clear temporary files automatically. Pick a schedule that fits your habits rather than running a third-party cleaner every week.
Trim the startup crowd
Open Task Manager's Startup apps tab and disable programs you don't need immediately after sign-in. This won't uninstall anything; you can still open those apps whenever you want.
Leave security tools and device utilities alone if you're unsure what they do. Focus on the obvious extras, then restart and see whether sign-in feels smoother.
Finish with updates
Check Windows Update, install pending security fixes, and restart when prompted. If space is still tight, sort installed apps by size and remove software you no longer use.
Avoid registry cleaners. They promise dramatic speed gains but rarely address the actual cause of a slow computer, and an aggressive cleanup can create more work than it saves.
Thread (0)