Disk almost full: find what is using the space
A low-space warning is about a particular drive or volume, so identify that volume before interpreting category totals or large folders. Read built-in storage details and ask what downloads or backups are for without opening private files. Do not delete, move, compress, or clear anything during discovery.
Updated November 11, 2026
- Ask what storage warning appeared Record the warning, when it appeared, and which drive or volume it names. Ask whether the customer has already moved or removed files.
- Read the built-in storage overview Use Windows Storage settings, macOS Storage settings, or the Linux desktop’s storage or disk-usage view. Record available space and the largest categories shown.
- Inspect large folders by size Use the file manager’s size display or built-in storage details to identify large folders. Note paths and sizes without opening private files or moving anything.
- Review downloads and old backups Ask what downloads and backup folders are for. Record dates and sizes, but do not assume an old-looking backup is disposable or that a download is safe to remove.
- Check sync and removable storage status Note whether cloud sync, external drives, or other volumes appear in the storage view. Confirm which volume is full before discussing any next step.
- Back up and get approval before cleanup If removal is considered, stop discovery, confirm a current backup and the customer’s intent, then make a separate plan. Never delete system folders.
Which drive or volume is reporting low space?
Record the low-space warning, affected drive or volume, and when it appeared. Ask whether files were recently moved, downloaded, or synced. A computer with several volumes can have one nearly full while another has space, so do not assume the cause before checking.
Which built-in storage view should I use?
On Windows, read Storage in Settings. On macOS, read Storage in System Settings or About This Mac. On Linux, use the desktop’s storage or disk-usage view. Record available space, category totals, warnings, and when you checked. Views can estimate or group files differently.
How can I inspect large folders safely?
Use the file manager’s size information to find large folders. Record names, locations, and sizes without opening personal documents or moving items. Downloads may contain customer files, and an old backup may be the only copy. Ask what an item is for; old does not mean unnecessary.
What about system folders and backups?
Never delete system folders or files to free space. Do not clear caches, logs, or update files during discovery. If cleanup is requested, identify the exact item, confirm the customer’s intent, and make sure a suitable backup exists before proposing a change.
When should I stop?
Stop before deleting, moving, compressing, or clearing files. If cleanup is later considered, identify the exact item, verify an accessible backup, and obtain the customer’s approval first. Leave system locations or items with unclear ownership untouched; hand off the volume, warning, and observed sizes for review.
CommandGate can collect read-only storage findings for the technician to review; it does not decide which customer files are disposable.