Have you been struggling to keep all the data on your Macbook recently? Macs are quite notorious when it comes to their hard drives. Little space that is available is certainly not for everyone, and some users struggle quite a bit, especially if they make a switch from another type of computer.
Of course, this does not mean that Macbooks are inferior. Like with most things, you will need some time to adjust. People who have experience with Macs will tell you that it is only a matter of time. Also, having a maintenance routine helps as well. You should be able to create such a routine after reading this guide and the ideas below.
Idea #1 – Reinstall the OS
Reinstalling the OS might seem like an extreme measure to some, but the method certainly works when you have too much data on the computer, and things are not working out despite your best efforts.
Keep in mind, though, that all the data gets wiped once you are finished. Use Time Machine or another tool to back up the files you want to keep.
Even if you have not done it before, reinstalling the OS is not that hard. There are lots of tutorials online. Lastly, if you are still not confident in your own abilities, ask someone who has the experience and let them do the work.
Idea #2 – Subscribe to Streaming Services
Streaming services have made lives easier for a number of people. You can access your favorite media with just a few clicks. On top of that, there is no need to keep large media files on the computer or other devices.
If you like to listen to music or watch movies and TV shows, consider using more of such services as doing so will eliminate the need to keep large media files on the hard drive of your computer.
Idea #3 – Delete Temporary Junk
Junk files like caches or backups accumulate over time. You cannot remove them that simply as the process will involve tinkering with system settings. Creating backups will also be necessary, given that there is a chance you might delete something accidentally.
Thankfully, though, there is a better, more efficient option. Get a cleanup utility tool that will automatically remove all the junk. You will have a much easier time, and performing the cleanup regularly will help with boosting the computer’s performance as well as free up available storage.
Idea #4 – Scan for Potential Cybersecurity Threats
Given how many forms of cybersecurity threats there are, it should not come as a surprise that you may encounter something that slowly consumes hard drive space.
If you notice a sudden shrinking of available storage without making any changes yourself, it is possible that there is a virus or malware. Scan the computer and remove any corrupted files.
Idea #5 – Manage Unnecessary Applications
Applications you no longer use should not be worth keeping around, especially if you are looking to free up disk space.
Removing such applications will also free up other resources, like memory usage. Look at what the Activity Monitor shows. Some apps could be running in the background for no reason. Even if it is not a lot, resources that are used by redundant applications could be put to better use.
Idea #6 – Purchase External Storage Devices
Even if it is second-hand, an external storage device like a flash stick will still come in handy. Some people have way too much data that they need to keep on the computer and cannot delete it. However, transferring it to another location is an option, and external storage devices are a solid choice.
Idea #7 – Transfer Data to Clouds
Clouds are similar to external storage devices. You can transfer some of your stuff to a safe location, thanks to services like Dropbox or iCloud. And it is for free. As for file access, you can do that so long as you have internet access.
If you are not satisfied with how much storage is available in the default plans, there is always an option to spend a bit of money and upgrade.
Idea #8 – Remove Email Attachments and Downloads
Those who do a lot of their work via emails likely open quite a few attachments. By default, these attachments are saved on the computer.
Downloads folder could also become a bit of a problem eventually. Both email attachment and downloads folders need to be cleared regularly. If you have not done so before, you are in for a surprise when you see how much stuff there is in them.
Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Setting Up MacBook Pro
Idea #9 – Get Rid of Language Files
Some applications have language packs. There are hardly any instances when you need a language other than English. Keeping all the files of 50 or so other languages is simply not worth it. Look through your app list and if you find some that have these language packs, do not hesitate and leave only the English version.
