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How to free up space on a PC

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How to free up space on a PC

Using a PC is all fun and games until you run out of storage. We’ve all been there, and the problem becomes more frequent if you’ve been using your PC for years. Over time, the hard disk starts filling up with everything, including PDFs, video files, random screenshots, and duplicate photos transferred from an SD card or your phone.

Once your PC’s storage fills up, it slows down because the resources required to process tasks become limited. I will discuss some proven methods to reclaim valuable space and improve your computer’s performance.

If you’re not a PC user, find more ways to free up space on these devices: iPhoneAndroidMac

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Empty recycle bin

When you delete something on your PC, it remains in the Recycle Bin and still takes up space on your hard disk. The Recycle Bin usually holds deleted files for 30 days, but if you need to free up space right away, emptying it is a good first step. Note that “Recycle Bin” is the term used on Windows. To free up disk space from the Recycle Bin:

  • Search for Recycle Bin on your desktop and right-click it.
  • Select Empty Recycle Bin.
  • Confirm the deletion.

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Step to empty recycle bin on PC. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Delete unnecessary apps

After clearing the Recycle Bin, the next step is to delete unnecessary apps. Unused applications take up valuable storage space and can slow down your system. Removing them will free up space and improve performance on your Windows PC.

  • Go to Settings
  • Click Apps
  • Select Installed apps.
  • Sort apps by size to find large ones.
  • Click an app and select Uninstall.

Image of Installed apps on a PC. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Delete the files you don’t need

Take some time to go through your files and delete anything you no longer need. Old documents, large video files, duplicate photos, and outdated downloads can take up a surprising amount of space. If you are unsure about deleting certain files, move them to an external drive or cloud storage before permanently removing them from your Windows PC.

  • Open Settings
  • Click System.
  • Select Storage.

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Steps to delete the files you don’t need on a PC. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Steps to delete the files you don’t need on a PC. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Check the boxes for items like temporary files, downloads and recycle bin.

(Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Click Remove files.
  • You can also use Disk Cleanup: Type “Disk Cleanup” in the Start menu, select a drive and choose files to delete.

Enable Storage Sense on Windows

If you’re using Windows, Storage Sense is a built-in feature that can automatically free up space by removing temporary files and old items from the Recycle Bin. How to enable storage sense on Windows:

  • Open Settings and go to System > Storage.
  • Click on Storage Sense and toggle it On.
  • Under the Configure cleanup schedules sectionchoose how often it should run (every day, week or month). Once enabled, Storage Sense will automatically clean up space based on your preferences.

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Transfer files to external storage

  • Choose the right external drive: Opt for an external hard drive or solid-state drive (SSD) that suits your needs. SSDs offer faster speeds and better durability, while HDDs provide larger capacities at lower costs.
  • Transfer files: Connect your external drive, copy your files to it and verify that all files are successfully transferred.
  • Delete original files: After verifying the transfer, delete the original files from your PC to free up space. On Windows, use File Explorer to delete files and empty the Recycle Bin. On Mac, use Finder to move files to Trash and then empty it.

Consider cloud storage

Cloud storage services like Google DriveDropbox and Microsoft OneDrive offer convenient, flexible options for storing large files without consuming your laptop’s limited space. These services allow you to securely store your photos, videos and documents in the cloud, freeing up valuable storage on your device. One significant advantage of cloud storage is accessing files from any device with an internet connection, whether on your phone, tablet or another computer.

Most cloud services provide a certain amount of free storage (typically between 2GB and 15GB) before upgrading to a paid plan. For instance, Google Drive offers 15GB of free storage shared across Google services, while Dropbox provides 2GB for free with options to upgrade for more space. OneDrive provides 5GB for free, but Microsoft users can get additional storage through Office 365 subscriptions, granting access to the Microsoft Office suite.

Additionally, cloud storage services come with features like automatic syncing and backup, making it easier to organize and safeguard your files. This can be particularly helpful for large photo and video libraries, which can be set to upload automatically from your phone or computer. With features like file versioning and collaboration tools, cloud platforms offer more than just storage  — they enhance productivity and allow seamless file sharing with friends, family or colleagues.

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Finally, many cloud storage providers offer encryption and other security measures to protect your files for added peace of mind. However, it would be best always to take extra precautions, such as enabling two-factor authentication and using strong, unique passwords, to ensure your data is safe. Kurt’s favorite cloud services can be seen here.

Protect your data: Essential security steps after managing storage

After you’ve freed up space on your PC-whether by deleting old files, moving data to an external drive or leveraging cloud storage, it’s just as important to make sure your valuable information stays secure. The following steps will help you protect your files and personal data from cyber threats and accidental loss.

1. Use strong passwords: Create unique, complex passwords for all your accounts and devices. Consider using a password manager to generate and store secure passwords. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed Password Managers of 2025 here.

2. Enable encryption: Encrypt your external hard drives and cloud storage accounts to add an extra layer of protection to your data.

3. Implement two-factor authentication (2FA): Enable 2FA on all accounts that offer this feature, especially for cloud storage services.

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4. Install and maintain strong antivirus software: Use a strong antivirus program and keep it updated to protect against malware and other security threats. The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

5. Regularly update your operating system and applications: Keep your devices and software up to date to ensure you have the latest security patches.

6. Be cautious with public Wi-Fi: Avoid accessing sensitive information when connected to public networks, or use a VPN for added security. Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) service can enhance your privacy by encrypting your internet traffic, making it harder for hackers and third parties to intercept your data, especially on public Wi-Fi. A VPN masks your IP address, helping to obscure your location and online activity. While VPNs don’t directly prevent phishing emails, they reduce the exposure of your browsing habits to trackers that may use this data maliciously. With a VPN, you can securely access your email accounts from anywhere, even in areas with restrictive internet policies. For best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices

7. Backup your data regularly: Create multiple backups of your important files, including at least one offline copy.

8. Use secure file transfer methods: When sharing files, use encrypted transfer methods or password-protected links.

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By following these steps, you can significantly enhance the security of your data and protect yourself from potential cyber threats.

Kurt’s key takeaway

Your PC’s storage can fill up fast, but you can always free up some space. I personally prefer storing images and videos that take up too much space on an external drive. This way, I can access them whenever I need to while keeping my PC storage free. If an external drive feels like too much of a hassle, you can always opt for cloud storage. Windows supports a range of cloud storage options, including its own services like OneDrive.

What’s the most surprising thing you’ve found taking up space on your computer?  Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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Roland’s Go:Mixer Studio turns your phone into a mobile music studio

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Roland’s Go:Mixer Studio turns your phone into a mobile music studio

Roland now offers a more capable audio mixer for phones and tablets with the launch of the Go:Mixer Studio. The Go:Mixer audio interface lineup has always been a bit limited, better suited for scrappy live streams and capturing quick demos on their phones than professional recording. The Go:Mixer Studio is an attempt to actually reach that lofty goal, with more inputs and outputs, built-in effects, and up to 24-bit / 192kHz audio. There’s even an iOS app that allows you to capture video and multitrack audio simultaneously.

Streaming and social video are still the major use cases here. The Go:Mixer Studio can even be mounted on a mic stand so you can keep it in easy reach during a live session. The screen and knobs allow you to control all the parameters on the Go:Mixer Studio directly, but there’s also a desktop app for Windows and MacOS that gives you complete control of the mixer remotely.

There’s plenty of connectivity, including two XLR inputs on the back with phantom power, a 1/4-inch instrument input for directly connecting a guitar or bass, stereo 1/4-inch line-in jacks, and an aux input. There’s also 1/8-inch TRS MIDI in and out, two headphone jacks, and stereo line outs for connecting to studio monitors. Each audio input has a dedicated EQ and compressor on the channel. The XLR and instrument ins also have reverb available.

The Go:Mixer Studio is available now for $299.

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Alexa.com brings Alexa+ to your browser

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Alexa.com brings Alexa+ to your browser

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

For years, Alexa mostly stayed in one place. It lived on kitchen counters, nightstands or living room shelves. That setup worked for music and timers, but it also limited when and how people could actually use the assistant. Now that is changing.

Amazon has rolled out Alexa.com, which brings Alexa+ directly to your web browser for Early Access users. Instead of relying on a speaker or phone, you can now open a laptop and start using Alexa like any other web-based AI tool.

This shift is less about new tricks and more about access. Alexa can now follow you throughout your day instead of waiting for you at home.

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Amazon’s Alexa is no longer tied to a smart speaker, with Alexa.com bringing the assistant and Alexa+ directly to the web browser for Early Access users. (Photo Illustration by Thomas Fuller/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

What Alexa.com actually is

Alexa.com is the browser-based version of Alexa+. You can type questions, explore topics, plan trips, organize tasks, or create content without touching a smart speaker. The biggest difference is continuity. Alexa keeps context across devices, so conversations carry over whether you are on your laptop, phone, Echo, or Fire TV. You do not have to repeat yourself every time you switch screens. That makes Alexa feel less like a command tool and more like an assistant that remembers what you are working on.

Who can use Alexa.com right now

Alexa.com is not open to everyone yet. To use it, you need:

  • Alexa+ Early Access
  • An Amazon account linked to a compatible Echo, Fire TV, or Fire tablet
  • US-based Amazon account
  • Device language set to English, United States

Child profiles are not supported on the browser version. Older Echo devices will continue using the original Alexa.

What Alexa.com cannot do yet

Because Alexa.com is still in Early Access, it has limits that matter for everyday users. Right now:

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  • You can only type to Alexa in your browser
  • Voice interaction is not supported on the web
  • Music playback is not available
  • Smart home controls are limited compared to Echo devices

Amazon says features will roll out gradually. Alexa.com is meant to complement your devices, not fully replace them yet.

Meal planning without juggling tabs

One area where Alexa.com feels genuinely useful is meal planning. You can ask Alexa for a full week of meals and set preferences like high protein, low sugar, or kid-friendly lunches. Alexa generates a plan and turns it into a shopping list. From there, items can be added directly to Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods. Instead of bouncing between recipes, notes and carts, everything happens in one place.

Organizing everyday life in one place

Alexa.com also works as a lightweight life organizer. You can upload documents, emails and images so Alexa can pull out key details. That includes appointments, reminders and schedules you would otherwise forget. Instead of searching your inbox, you can ask Alexa when the dog last went to the vet or what time practice starts tonight. The information stays available across devices.

Smart home access, with limits

Alexa.com keeps your smart home controls visible next to your chat window. While full smart home control is still limited in the browser, Alexa.com lets you check status, review activity and continue actions on your Echo or Fire TV devices. It is most useful as a bridge. You can start something in the browser and finish it at home without starting over.

Recipes that follow you into the kitchen

Alexa.com also simplifies cooking. If you find a recipe online, you can paste the link into Alexa and ask it to adjust for dietary needs. Alexa can save it, convert it into ingredients and add everything to your shopping list. When it is time to cook, Alexa can pull the recipe up on your Echo Show, guide you step by step and manage timers so your hands stay free.

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Alexa.com lets users type questions, plan trips, organize tasks and create content without relying on an Echo or smartphone. (Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Finding something to watch faster

Decision fatigue hits hard at night. On Alexa.com, you can explore movie themes, get recommendations and save picks for later. When you sit down, Alexa remembers your choices and sends them to your Fire TV. That cuts down on scrolling and family debates.

What about privacy

Using Alexa on the web raises natural privacy questions. Amazon says Alexa+ includes built-in protections and user controls. Still, it is worth taking a minute to review your settings, especially if you plan to upload documents or personal information. A few smart habits can help:

  • Check your Alexa privacy settings and review stored activity
  • Avoid uploading sensitive documents like IDs or medical records
  • Use strong antivirus software to protect your device. The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

As with any AI assistant, convenience comes with trade-offs. Staying aware helps you stay in control.

How much Alexa+ will cost

Alexa+ is free during Early Access. When Early Access ends, you will not be automatically charged. After that:

  • Alexa+ stays free with a Prime membership
  • Non-Prime users can subscribe for $19.99 per month

This makes Alexa.com more appealing for Prime members and a tougher sell for everyone else.

What this means to you

For most people, Alexa.com is about convenience. If you already use Alexa at home, the web version makes it easier to use during the day. You can plan, organize or look things up from your computer and then pick up later on your phone or Echo. It also puts Alexa in the same category as other browser-based AI tools, but with deeper ties to shopping, smart home features and entertainment. Whether you stick with it will likely come down to how often you want Alexa to help you during your day.

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Amazon says Alexa.com allows conversations to carry over across devices, giving users continuity between laptops, phones and smart home screens. (Photographer: Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Kurt’s key takeaways

Alexa.com does not reinvent Alexa. It simply makes it easier to use where people already spend time. By bringing Alexa+ to the browser, Amazon is betting that continuity matters more than novelty. For some users, that will be enough to make Alexa feel relevant again.

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If Alexa followed you from your laptop to your living room, would you actually rely on it more, or would it still feel optional? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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A second US Sphere could come to Maryland

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A second US Sphere could come to Maryland

The second US sphere would be built in an area known as National Harbor in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Located along the Potomac River, National Harbor currently features a convention center, multiple hotels, restaurants, and shops. While Abu Dhabi plans to build a sphere as large as the one in Las Vegas, the National Harbor venue would be one of the first mini-Sphere venues announced last March.

Its capacity would be limited to 6,000 seats instead of over 17,000. But the smaller Sphere would still be hard to miss with an exterior LED exosphere for showcasing the “artistic and branded content” that helped make the original sphere a unique part of the Las Vegas skyline.

The inside of the mini-Sphere will feature a high-resolution 16,000 by 16,000 pixel wrap-around screen, the company’s immersive sound technology, haptic seating, and “4D environmental effects.” For the AI-enhanced version of The Wizard of Oz currently playing in Las Vegas, audiences experience effects like wind, fog, smells, and apples falling from the ceiling.

The mini-Sphere will potentially also be cheaper to build than the $2.3 billion original, but its construction is contingent on the “receipt of certain governmental incentives and approvals from Prince George’s County and the State of Maryland.” Sphere Entertainment says the project “would utilize a combination of public and private funding, including approximately $200 million in state, local, and private incentives,” but would potentially generate millions of dollars in revenue for the country and state while supporting over 4,700 jobs once it opens.

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