Some Macbook users tend to struggle with the storage available on a hard drive. There is not as much available space, meaning that fitting every file you want can be impossible. Moreover, if you end up with just a few free gigabytes of space, the performance of a Macbook drops immediately.
This issue seems like something that should slow down the popularity of Macbooks, but it is not the case. There are ways to deal with the problem, and this article will tell how. Read the tips below and use them to create a strategy to have enough hard drive space.
Tip #1 – Use Cleaner Software
There are temporary junk files that you can access by changing the system settings. But if you decide to delete them manually, it will take time. Not to mention the need to create backups in case you delete an important file accidentally.
On the other hand, you have an option to get a cleanup utility tool. Some of the best mac app cleaners provide you with plenty of features, including tools that let you remove unwanted system junk automatically. The method is more efficient, especially if you have to get rid of temporary data a couple of times every month.
Tip #2 – Scan for Potential Viruses
Cybersecurity threats pose a danger even to those Macbook owners who utilize their computers for personal use. Do not make the mistake of assuming that you are not prone to cyberattacks.
Malware, phishing, ransomware, and viruses can lead to hard drive problems as well, including lack of space. Make sure that your system is free of malware. Use proxies and VPNs in addition to reliable antivirus.
Improving your internet browser’s security by adding relevant extensions is also a good piece of advice. Ad blockers would prevent pop-ups that lead to malware-infested landing pages.
Tip #3 – Delete Old Applications
Old applications should be removed without giving it much thought. For one thing, you can always download and reinstall them. And if your goal is to free up hard drive space, then is there any need to keep applications that you never use and are unlikely to use in the future? Even if they do not require a lot of space on the hard drive, every bit helps.
Tip #4 – Get Rid of Language Pack Files
Some apps support foreign languages. Language files take a surprising amount of space because of how many different languages there are. It goes up to 50 and even more. In most cases, the English version is everything that users need. Therefore, it should not be a problem to get rid of redundant language pack files.
Tip #5 – Check Email Attachments and Downloads
Your email attachment and download folders could also have more files than you expect. Email attachments are saved on the computer by default when you double-click on them. It would be smart to disable this setting or change the location to the desktop so that you see when a file is idly sitting on the computer.
A similar thing can be said about downloads. Not everyone remembers to check the folder regularly. Files you no longer need can be removed without thinking about it too much, especially if they served their purpose.
Tip #6 – Transfer Data to Clouds
You do not have to remove every file. Instead, keep some of your most important data in a location other than the hard drive of the Macbook. Cloud services like Dropbox and iCloud are a good way to start.
The services are free and provide you with a few gigabytes of storage. If you are happy with it, you can upgrade your plan and pay a monthly fee for even more space. Files in clouds can be accessed on other devices, not just the Macbook, so long as you have the device synced with your cloud account.
Tip #7 – Buy External Storage Devices
Like clouds, external storage hard drives, memory sticks, and DVDs could also work as vessels to keep your files. They cost more money, but you will know that the data is in a good place and easily accessed. Moreover, a device like external storage hard drives provides more than enough storage, even when you have many large media or other types of files.
Tip #8 – Subscribe to Streaming Platforms
Speaking of media files, you can eliminate the need to keep those around if you use available streaming services. Netflix, Spotify, and Disney+ are just a few examples.
Movies, TV shows, and music are available with just a few clicks. You need to create an account and play or watch your desired content when you find it on the platform. Forget about needing to download files directly to your computer.
