Running out of hard drive space can feel like running out of closet space. You keep saving files, downloading videos, and installing apps, until one day—bam—your PC slows down or refuses to install updates. If you’re on Windows 11, checking how much space you have left is straightforward. In this guide, I’ll walk you through different ways to check your disk space, understand what’s taking up room, and even share tips to free some of it up.
Why Checking Storage Matters
Avoid Performance Issues
Low disk space can cause your system to run sluggishly, similar to trying to sprint with a backpack full of bricks.
Ensure Updates Install Smoothly
Windows updates often require gigabytes of free space. Without it, updates fail.
Plan for Future Use
If you’re installing large games, video editing tools, or saving big media files, knowing your available space prevents frustration.
Method 1: Using File Explorer
Step 1: Open File Explorer
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Press Win + E or click the File Explorer icon on the taskbar.
Step 2: Navigate to “This PC”
On the left-hand panel, click This PC.
Step 3: View Drive Usage
Here, you’ll see all your drives with a bar indicating used and free space. Hovering over gives you exact numbers.
Method 2: Using Windows Settings
Step 1: Open Settings
Press Win + I to launch Settings.
Step 2: Navigate to Storage
Go to System > Storage.
Step 3: Analyze Breakdown
Windows 11 neatly categorizes what’s consuming space—apps, documents, temporary files, etc.
Method 3: Using Command Prompt
For techies who like text-based tools:
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Press Win + S, type
cmd, and run as Administrator. -
Type:
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It shows free and total space for each drive.
Method 4: Using PowerShell
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Open PowerShell as admin.
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Run:
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You’ll see used and free space across drives.
Understanding Disk Usage Categories
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Apps & Features – Programs and games.
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System & Reserved – Windows files, recovery partitions.
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Temporary Files – Cache, recycle bin, update leftovers.
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Documents/Media – Your files.
Tips to Free Up Space
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Use Storage Sense to auto-delete temp files.
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Run Disk Cleanup.
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Move large files to external storage.
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Uninstall unused apps.
Advanced Tip: Check with Third-Party Tools
Programs like TreeSize or WinDirStat give a detailed, visual breakdown of what’s hogging your drive.
Wrapping It Up
Checking your hard drive space on Windows 11 is quick and easy, with multiple methods depending on your preference. From File Explorer visuals to PowerShell commands, you can always stay on top of your storage.
FAQs
Q1: How much free space should I keep on Windows 11?
At least 20–25GB to allow updates and smooth performance.
Q2: Can I expand hard drive space without deleting files?
Yes, by adding an external drive or cloud storage.
Q3: Why does “System & Reserved” take so much space?
It holds recovery, page files, and Windows core files.
Q4: Is there a way to auto-manage storage?
Yes, enable Storage Sense in Settings.
Q5: Will low storage affect gaming?
Absolutely—it causes lag, longer load times, and installation issues.
How to Reset Network Settings in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide
Introduction
Internet acting up? Maybe your Wi-Fi keeps disconnecting, websites load at a snail’s pace, or your VPN won’t connect. Sometimes the simplest fix is hitting the reset button—not on your router, but on your Windows 11 network settings.
When to Reset Network Settings
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Wi-Fi won’t connect even after entering the correct password.
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Ethernet shows “No Internet.”
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VPN or proxy conflicts.
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After malware cleanup.
What Resetting Actually Does
Think of it as wiping the chalkboard clean. Resetting:
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Removes saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords.
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Deletes Ethernet, VPN, and proxy settings.
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Reinstalls network adapters.
Step 1: Open Settings
Press Win + I.
Step 2: Navigate to Network & Internet
Click Network & Internet in the sidebar.
Step 3: Advanced Network Settings
Scroll down and select Advanced network settings.
Step 4: Network Reset
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Click Network Reset.
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Hit Reset now.
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Your PC will restart automatically.
Step 5: Reconnect to Wi-Fi
After restart, reconnect to your network manually.
Alternative Method: Command Prompt
Run these commands in cmd (admin):
Troubleshooting After Reset
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Still no internet? Restart your router.
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Drivers missing? Update via Device Manager.
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VPN won’t reconnect? Reinstall it.
Pros of Resetting
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Fixes most connectivity issues.
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Clears corrupt configs.
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Quick and easy.
Cons of Resetting
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You lose saved Wi-Fi passwords.
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VPN/proxy configs must be re-entered.
Wrapping It Up
Resetting network settings on Windows 11 can feel like giving your internet a fresh start. If simple troubleshooting fails, this often does the trick.
FAQs
Q1: Will resetting delete my personal files?
No, only network-related data.
Q2: Do I need admin rights?
Yes, admin access is required.
Q3: Should I try this before reinstalling drivers?
Yes—it’s less drastic.
Q4: Can I undo a network reset?
No, but you can reconfigure settings.
Q5: Does it affect Bluetooth?
Yes, Bluetooth devices will be disconnected too.