Have you noticed that fitting all the files you want on a Macbook is not that simple? The problem is common among people who have replaced their personal computer with a Macbook or those who still do not have that much experience with the macOS.
Despite a seemingly low amount of available hard drive space, many Macbook owners do not find this to be a significant issue. They have a system that allows keeping the HDD of a Macbook in good condition instead of a few gigabytes of free storage and a variety of performance problems.
The ideas in this post should be enough to help you create a strategy for properly managing your data. Continue reading and find how other Macbook owners are dealing with storage they have available on their Macbooks.
Idea #1 – Empty the Trash Bin
The first idea on the list is simple – emptying the Trash Bin. Some people think that dragging the files in the Trash Bin is all you need to remove them from the computer. The reality is quite different, as you are only relocating the files instead of deleting them.
You need to click on the “Empty Trash Bin” button whenever you drag a file there. Only then will the files disappear from the system for good and free up hard drive space.
Idea #2 – Get Rid of Temporary Junk Data
Temporary junk, like system backups, app plugins and extensions, and caches are a hindrance to more than just the hard drive. The sheer number of these files means that the system needs to process them, and that takes resources.
Getting rid of temporary data should be one of your priorities. And you need to do it regularly if you want to keep the Mac and the hard drive in good shape.
Removing junk files manually is a bit of a chore, so you would be better off buying cleaner software that removes unwanted files from the computer automatically.
Idea #3 – Delete Old Applications
Applications that you remove can be installed later. There is no need to keep apps you no longer use, even if they do not take that much space. If the goal is to free up hard drive space, then every megabyte counts.
It is also worth mentioning that some applications come with language support packs. There are hardly any instances when someone needs to use a language other than English. The redundant pack that supports 50 or even more languages can be as large as 1 gigabyte. Make sure that there are no such files on your computer.
Idea #4 – Remove Email Attachments
If you use emails often and click on attachments, remember that email attachments are saved on the computer by default. You may have many of these attachments on the system already.
The best solution would be to disable the default option and not allow these attachments to be saved on the computer. Or change the directory to the desktop so that you notice the file immediately and can delete it.
Idea #5 – Use Cloud Services
There is no need to delete everything. You can transfer some of your files and keep them in another location. Cloud services, such as iCloud and Dropbox, are good examples. They are free with an option to get a monthly payment plan and increase the amount of available storage.
If you sync your cloud account with an iPad or an iPhone, you can access the files from these devices as well.
Idea #6 – Purchase External Storage Devices
Memory sticks, DVDs, and external hard drives are good investments if you have more data than your computer can handle. You can even look for second-hand external storage devices. Even if they are cheaper, they should be more than enough to accommodate your needs.
Idea #7 – Make Sure Macbook is Malware-Free
A malware or virus problem is one that you should avoid at all costs. Cybersecurity threats can lead to issues other than just eating the hard drive space without you realizing what is happening.
Scan the system using reliable antivirus. Leave the software running in the background so that it detects and eliminates potential threats.
Idea #8 – Subscribe to Streaming Services
A plethora of available streaming services is a life-saver for Macbook owners who like to consume media. Hulu, Amazon, Netflix, Disney+, and Spotify are some of the biggest names, but new streaming platforms are appearing every year. The trend is unlikely to stop.
Media files are large, especially movies and TV shows. Music is a bit different, but it is common to keep hundreds if not thousands of music files on the computer. Or at least it was before the era of streaming. Now you can access your entertainment with a few clicks and without having to download them to the computer.