Now that invoices and records and files of all sorts are largely, if not entirely, digitally based, your computer’s storage space is probably filling up fast. Unfortunately, you can’t just buy a new filing cabinet this time (which is probably for the better, depending on the space available in your office!). Here are our tips on how to save space on your computer.
De-Clutter the Desktop
If your desktop has begun to resemble a room from an episode of Hoarders, it’s probably time for a change. Go through your files and delete anything you no longer need, taking care to organize as you go. Try separating files that should be saved for another month or so from those that you need to hang on to indefinitely, and check that folder every few weeks to make sure you’re keeping up with the virtual housekeeping. Especially important documents that you don’t use particularly often should be stored on an external hard drive, which we’ll get to next.
Hard Drives
When you’re fresh out of space on your laptop, hard drives will become your best friend. A secure and flexible way to store information, hard drives are great for files that take up a lot of space, like videos or pictures. Certain files may have to be imported/exported in order to transfer between computer and drive, so remember to be aware of this when you start the process. Otherwise, hard drives can easily be plugged into different computers depending on where you’re working and hold huge amounts of storage space. You can purchase different sizes depending on how much extra space you need and go from there if you end up requiring even more.
Google Drive
One of the great things about Google Drive is that you can access it from any of your devices so long as you’re able to log into your email. As part of the Google Suite, you receive about 15GB of free storage and can buy more if needed. Easily upload files from your computer to your Drive to save space on the computer itself and gain easy access from virtually anywhere. Google even allows one user per device to make edits on documents without an internet connection, preserving the changes until they can be saved once you’re back on WiFi.
Digital Cleanup
Every computer brand should have an option for utility cleanup, which allows you to view where your storage space is being used and what files you may want to get rid of. These functions usually empty your Recycling Bin as well, which works to minimize the risk of viruses. Make sure you’re keeping up with emptying this space as well as any Trash folders on your own for extra security and space. Finally, there are several free online cleaner software options that will comb through your files as well.
We hope these tips on saving computer storage help you run your business smoothly and efficiently!
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