Your computer's performance can deteriorate over time due to accumulated clutter, outdated software, and hidden inefficiencies. This 2025 guide provides a step-by-step checklist to help you optimize your system, improve speed, and extend its lifespan. Here's what you'll learn:

• Remove unused applications to free up disk space.

• Clear temporary and junk files to boost responsiveness.

• Organize your desktop for a cleaner workspace.

• Clean the Downloads folder to reclaim storage.

• Delete large and old files that slow down your system.

• Manage startup programs to improve boot times.

• Update software and Windows for security and performance.

• Run security scans to protect against modern threats.

For a faster, more efficient cleanup, tools like Diskify can automate many of these tasks with AI-powered analysis, visual storage breakdowns, and smart recommendations. Whether you prefer manual methods or automated solutions, this guide ensures your computer stays in top shape in 2025.

Step 1: Remove Unused Applications

Kick off your system cleanup by getting rid of unused applications that eat up disk space and drag down performance. This step lays the groundwork for a smoother, faster computer.

Unused apps can bog down your system. Many computers come preloaded with bloatware - those trial versions, adware, and unnecessary toolbars you didn’t ask for. Think expired antivirus trials, redundant video players, or office tools that keep nagging you for payment. On top of that, you probably have programs you installed ages ago and never used again. These forgotten apps add to the clutter and can slow things down.

How to Spot Unused Programs

The first step is figuring out what you actually need. A good trick? Sort your installed programs by installation date. Anything you haven’t touched in months - or can’t even remember installing - is a good candidate for removal.

Here’s how you can check for unused programs on Windows:

• Settings (best for Windows 10/11): Go to Start > Settings > Apps > Installed apps. This view also shows how much space each app takes up.

• Control Panel: Search for "Control Panel" in the taskbar, then navigate to Programs > Programs and Features. This shows installation dates for easy sorting.

• Start Menu: Right-click any app in your All apps list and select "Uninstall" for a quick cleanup.

• Manual Check: Browse the Program Files and Program Files (x86) folders on your C:\ drive for unfamiliar software.

Some common programs worth removing include expired antivirus trials, duplicate video players, old games, outdated productivity tools, and browser toolbars.

Speed Things Up with Diskify

Manually going through your programs can be tedious. That’s where Diskify comes in, making the whole process faster and easier.

Diskify uses AI to scan your system and pinpoint unused applications. It doesn’t just look at installation dates - it also factors in usage patterns, file history, and storage impact. The result? Smart recommendations for what you can safely delete. Plus, the tool’s visual interface shows exactly how much space each app is taking up.

This automated approach saves hours of effort. Instead of digging through Control Panel or researching programs one by one, Diskify gives you a clear list of apps to remove, complete with confidence ratings. You can even uninstall programs directly through the interface.

For those with multiple drives or complex setups, Diskify’s multi-drive support ensures no unused apps are overlooked. It scans across all storage locations and consolidates everything into one easy-to-manage list.

Diskify offers various plans to suit different needs, including advanced AI features that can predict which newly installed programs might end up gathering dust based on your habits.

Step 2: Delete Temporary and Junk Files

After clearing out unused apps, the next step is tackling temporary and junk files that quietly pile up and slow down your system. Temporary files, often with a .TMP extension, are created as programs run and process data, typically accumulating in folders like C:\\Users\\AppData\\Local\\Temp. Junk files include outdated system cache, browser data, old installer files, and thumbnails. Even Microsoft developers recommend clearing these out periodically to keep your system running smoothly [3]. With unused applications gone, removing these leftover files can further enhance your computer's performance.

Using Windows Disk Cleanup Tool

Windows offers a built-in Disk Cleanup utility that simplifies the process of removing temporary and unnecessary files. This tool targets system files, browser caches, and other redundant data that accumulate over time.

Here’s how to use Disk Cleanup:

• Search for "Disk Cleanup" in the taskbar and select it from the results.

• Choose the drive you want to clean (usually the C: drive) and click "OK." The tool will calculate how much space can be freed.

• Review the list of file types and check the boxes for items you want to delete. Common options include Temporary Internet Files, Thumbnails, Delivery Optimization Files, and Windows Error Reports.

• For a deeper cleanup, click "Clean up system files", select your drive again, and include additional options like Windows Update files and old system restore points.

• Click "OK", then "Delete Files" to complete the cleanup.

A basic cleanup usually takes just a few minutes, while a more thorough process (like removing Windows Update files) may take 10–30 minutes, depending on your system and the amount of data being cleared [4]. For safety, consider creating a system restore point before performing a deep cleanup.

If you prefer manual control, you can directly access temporary file locations by pressing Windows + R, typing temp or %temp%, and deleting unwanted files from the folders.

Automating Junk File Cleanup with Diskify

While manual cleanup is effective, automating the process saves time and effort. Tools like Diskify streamline junk file removal by automatically identifying and deleting temporary internet files, system files, old installers, thumbnails, and residual deleted files. Its AI-powered scanning goes beyond file extensions, ensuring a more thorough analysis of what’s safe to remove.

The beauty of automation is that you don’t have to remember to run cleanup tools or sift through folders manually. Diskify operates in the background, and you can schedule regular cleanups to prevent junk from accumulating in the first place.

Diskify also simplifies browser cache management. Its browser cleaner tool clears cache files across multiple browsers automatically, so you don’t have to adjust settings for each one individually. For those who need more control, it offers deep scanning and secure deletion options to ensure sensitive temporary files are completely erased.

If you’re managing multiple drives or complex storage setups, Diskify’s multi-drive support ensures no temporary files are overlooked. It even provides a visual breakdown of space reclaimed in each cleanup category, helping you see where the biggest gains are.

Step 3: Clean Up Your Desktop

Once you've cleared out temporary files, it’s time to tackle your desktop. A cluttered desktop doesn’t just slow down your computer - it can also make finding files a frustrating ordeal and sap your productivity.

"Organizing your files is not only mentally cathartic, but it also makes it much easier to find what you need and saves space on your hard drive." - Dylan Grissom [5]

The good news? Cleaning up your desktop doesn’t have to be a marathon task. With a few simple strategies, you can turn a messy screen into a tidy, efficient workspace that boosts both your computer’s performance and your own workflow.

Best Practices for Decluttering Your Desktop

Start by setting aside 10–15 minutes each week for a quick cleanup. Create temporary folders - like "Business" or "Personal" - to sort files during this process [6]. This makes the task feel manageable and helps you spot patterns in the kinds of files that pile up.

Keep only what you need. Your desktop should be reserved for files you’re actively using or shortcuts you access daily. Move everything else into folders in your Documents, Pictures, or other project directories. For downloads or screenshots, make it a habit to file them away as soon as they’re saved instead of letting them accumulate [6].

Ditch redundant shortcuts. Many programs add desktop icons during installation, but if the same app is pinned to your taskbar or Start menu, you probably don’t need both. Keep only the shortcuts you actually use regularly.

Organize with folders and subfolders. Build a system that works for you. For instance, create a main folder like "Work Projects" and then add subfolders for individual clients or project stages. This hierarchy keeps your files organized and makes finding what you need much quicker.

Sort by size to identify space hogs. Open File Explorer by pressing Windows + E, navigate to your desktop, and click the "Size" column to sort files from largest to smallest. Large files - like videos, high-res images, or old presentations - can take up significant space. Consider moving these to external drives or cloud storage [2].

Enable Windows Storage Sense to automate some of the cleanup. It can delete temporary files and empty your Recycle Bin on a schedule, saving you time [2].

If manual organization feels overwhelming, tools like Diskify can simplify the process.

Using Diskify for Desktop Organization

Diskify’s AI-powered organization takes the hassle out of sorting. It automatically categorizes your files by type, date, and context. Unlike basic file extension sorting, Diskify analyzes file patterns and relationships, grouping documents, images, and project files in ways that match how you work.

Its natural language folder search feature is a game-changer. Instead of digging through layers of folders, you can search with phrases like "client presentations from last month" or "vacation photos." This makes finding files a breeze, even if you’ve forgotten where you stored them.

Diskify also includes a visual disk analysis tool. It shows which file types are taking up the most space, helping you decide what to keep on hand and what to archive. Whether your desktop is packed with documents, images, or other file types, you’ll have a clear picture of how to streamline it.

For those managing multiple drives or complex storage setups, Diskify’s multi-drive support ensures your organization system works seamlessly across all storage locations. It even offers suggestions for where to store files based on usage patterns and available space, making desktop management easier than ever.

Step 4: Clean Out the Downloads Folder

The Downloads folder is like a digital junk drawer where files tend to pile up. On Windows, it’s the default spot for saving anything downloaded from the internet [8]. Over time, this folder can fill up with unused files, taking up unnecessary space and even posing security risks [7]. Clearing it out is one of the simplest ways to free up storage and keep your computer organized. You might be surprised to find gigabytes of forgotten files lurking there. Let’s dive into how you can clean it out efficiently.

Manually Sorting and Deleting Downloads

Start by opening your Downloads folder and taking a good look at what’s in there. You’ll probably find old installation files, screenshots, or documents you’ve already saved elsewhere.

Sort files by size and date to prioritize deletions.
In File Explorer, navigate to your Downloads folder, then click View > Details. Right-click anywhere in the folder and choose Sort by > Size to see the largest files at the top [2]. This is a quick way to spot space hogs like video files, software installers, or high-resolution images. Next, sort by Date Modified to identify files you haven’t touched in ages. If something’s been sitting there for six months untouched, it’s probably safe to delete.

Delete files in bulk.
To delete multiple files at once, use Ctrl+click to select them, then press Delete [7].

Don’t forget the Recycle Bin.
Even after deleting files, they still take up space in the Recycle Bin. To clear them out for good, right-click the Recycle Bin and select Empty Recycle Bin [2].

Save what matters to external storage.
If you come across files you want to keep but don’t need on your computer, transfer them to an external drive. Just connect the drive, select the files, choose Cut, navigate to the drive, and hit Paste [2].

"Take time each week to sort through your recently downloaded files. Delete anything you do not need anymore or move files you want to keep to their appropriate folders. It won't take too long, and you'll be able to find your files when you want them more easily." [9] – Amy Hofmockel, Creative Technology Librarian

Set up a simple folder system.
To make cleanup easier, create temporary folders like "Work", "Personal", or "To Review." This helps you quickly categorize files as you go [6]. Plus, it makes it easier to spot trends in what you download most often.

Make it a habit.
Schedule 15 minutes each week to tidy up your Downloads folder. This small commitment can prevent clutter from building up again [6].

Speeding Up the Process with Diskify

If sifting through files manually feels too tedious, tools like Diskify can make the job a breeze. Diskify automates Downloads folder cleanup, saving you time and effort.

With its visual disk analysis, Diskify shows exactly how much space your Downloads folder is using and highlights which file types are taking up the most room. Its AI-powered features identify files you probably don’t need - like duplicate downloads, installer files, or temporary items - so you don’t have to comb through everything yourself.

Diskify also supports multiple drives, giving you a unified view of file clutter across all your storage locations. Its intelligent folder categorization groups related files together, making it easier to decide what to keep, move, or delete. Plus, it offers personalized storage tips based on your habits, helping you maintain a tidy Downloads folder by flagging files that have gone unused for too long.

Step 5: Delete Large and Old Files

Large files - like videos, backups, or installers - can take up a lot of storage space, slowing down your computer and limiting room for new data. Luckily, finding and removing these space hogs is easier than you might think. Let’s explore how to locate and clean them up using built-in Windows tools and the features of Diskify.

Manually Searching for Large Files

Windows comes equipped with several handy tools for identifying large files:

Use File Explorer's size filters.
Open File Explorer and head to the drive you want to search (commonly your C: drive). In the search bar, type terms like "size:Large", "size:Huge", or "size:Gigantic" to filter files by their size. Switch to the "Details" view and sort files by clicking the "Size" column header.

Search by file type.
If you're targeting specific file types, like videos or installers, you can search for extensions like *.mp4, *.iso, or *.zip. This method helps you zero in on files that tend to consume the most space.

Run advanced searches with PowerShell.
For a more technical approach, PowerShell can help you quickly list the largest files in a directory. Use this command:
gci -r | sort Length -desc | select fullname -f 10
It will display the 10 largest files in the current folder.

Be cautious about system files.
Avoid deleting anything in critical directories like Windows, Program Files, or System32. Instead, focus on personal files such as old videos, photos, unused downloads, or outdated installers.

Move files you want to keep.
If there are large files you still need, consider moving them to an external drive or cloud storage. This way, you free up local space without losing your data.

Visualizing Storage with Diskify

While Windows tools are helpful, Diskify takes it a step further by offering a user-friendly way to visualize and manage your storage.

Here’s what Diskify brings to the table:

• Visual Disk Analysis: Clear, easy-to-read charts that show which files and folders are taking up the most space.

• AI-Powered Insights: Automatically identifies patterns, like old backups, duplicate files, or unused installers, that might be safe to remove.

• Multi-Drive Support: Provides a unified view of all your storage devices, including internal drives, SSDs, and external drives.

• File Extension Breakdown: Displays storage usage by file type, helping you uncover unexpected space hogs.

• Personalized Suggestions: Guides you with tailored recommendations on which files to delete or move, based on your usage habits.

Diskify Pro: Offers advanced AI-driven analysis with detailed visuals for those who want automated insights.
Diskify Basic: Provides straightforward charts and file size breakdowns for users who prefer simplicity.

Step 6: Control Startup Programs

Too many programs starting up with your computer can slow boot times and eat up system resources. Apps like Teams, Skype, media players, or cloud storage services often launch automatically when you turn on your PC. While some of these programs are necessary, many are not, and they can hog memory and drag down your computer's performance.

"When too many programs open by default at startup, it can swamp your computer's processing power. Disabling startup programs you don't need speeds up boot times on PCs and laptops, and it can even help to fix the Windows 'black screen of death' and other serious system errors." - Domenic Molinaro, AVG Signal Blog [10]

Just like cleaning out junk files or uninstalling unused apps, managing your startup programs can significantly improve boot times and overall speed. The best part? You’re in control of what launches with Windows.

Here’s how to tweak your startup list using Windows Task Manager.

Using Task Manager to Adjust Startup Programs

The Windows Task Manager makes it easy to see which startup programs are slowing you down. It even assigns impact ratings to show how much each program affects your boot time.

• Access Task Manager: Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc, switch to the Startup tab, and sort programs by their impact rating. Look for those marked as Medium or High Impact, as these are likely causing delays.

• Disable Unnecessary Programs: Highlight any programs you don’t need right away and click the Disable button. Examples might include OneDrive (if you’re not using cloud sync), Spotify, Steam, Telegram Desktop, Adobe Reader, or Microsoft Teams if you don’t need them immediately.

• Do Your Research: If you’re unsure about a program, look it up online before disabling it. Be careful not to turn off critical software like antivirus programs or Windows Security.

A February 2023 AVG analysis confirmed that the more programs you have set to start automatically, the longer your computer takes to boot - and the slower it runs overall.

Streamlining Startup with Diskify

If you want to take startup management to the next level, Diskify offers a smart, automated solution. This tool uses AI to analyze your habits and recommend what to keep and what to disable.

• Personalized Suggestions: Diskify identifies which programs you rarely use and suggests turning them off at startup.

• Boosted Performance: By reducing unnecessary startup items, you’ll free up memory and processing power, making your computer run smoother throughout the day.

• Track Improvements: Diskify monitors how your changes impact boot times and overall performance.

• Choose Your Plan: Diskify Basic offers simple recommendations, while Diskify Pro provides deeper insights for advanced users.

Step 7: Update Software and Windows

Keeping your operating system and software up to date is a simple yet powerful way to ensure your computer stays secure, stable, and running smoothly. Updates often include fixes for security vulnerabilities, bug repairs, and performance enhancements that can make a noticeable difference in how your system operates.

Ignoring updates can leave your computer exposed to serious risks. For instance, the WannaCry ransomware attack and the Equifax data breach serve as stark reminders of how outdated software can lead to major security issues[14].

Updating Windows and Programs

If you're using Windows 11, updates are typically downloaded and installed automatically in the background. However, it's a good idea to manually check for updates to ensure your system is fully up to date. This is especially important if you're still on Windows 10, as Microsoft will stop providing free updates, security fixes, and technical support for it after October 14, 2025[11][12].

To manually check for updates in Windows, follow these steps:

• Go to Start > Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates.

• Download and install any available updates.

Make sure your device is plugged into a power source and connected to a reliable internet connection during the process. If you run into issues, you can troubleshoot by navigating to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Windows Update.

For third-party applications, updates are often managed separately. Many programs allow you to enable automatic updates in their settings. If not, you can manually check for updates by visiting the developer's website or accessing the program's settings menu. To stay organized, consider adopting a patching routine that includes assessing vulnerabilities, testing patches, deploying updates, and verifying their success[13]. Focus on updating critical tools first, such as your web browser, antivirus software, and any applications you use frequently.

Regular updates not only protect your system but also enhance its performance, complementing the clean-up efforts you've already undertaken.

Automating Updates with Diskify

Manually checking for updates works, but it's easy to forget about outdated programs hidden on your system. This is where tools like Diskify come in handy. Diskify simplifies the update process by scanning your system, identifying outdated applications, and providing reminders to keep everything current.

With Diskify, you'll receive alerts about available updates as part of its system analysis. This proactive approach ensures you never miss important security patches or performance upgrades. For those who want more detailed insights, the Pro version of Diskify offers advanced features to help you manage updates even more efficiently.

Step 8: Run Security and Malware Scans

Regular security scans are essential for keeping your computer safe and your data secure. Malware often sneaks in through email attachments, downloads, or compromised websites, and recent attacks in these areas have led to significant financial losses for organizations[17].

Using Windows Defender for Full Scans

Windows Defender, built into Windows 10 and Windows 11, provides real-time protection against threats like viruses, ransomware, and spyware[18]. While it automatically works in the background, performing a manual full system scan ensures that every file and folder on your computer gets checked thoroughly. Unlike quick scans, which focus on high-risk areas, a full scan covers your entire system. Depending on your hard drive size and the number of files, it may take a while to complete[15].

Here’s how to run a full scan:

• Open Windows Security.

• Navigate to Virus & threat protection.

• Click on Scan options.

• Select Full scan and hit Scan now.

During the scan, Windows Defender will display details about any threats it finds, including their names, severity levels, and suggested actions. For best results, aim to run quick scans daily and full scans once a week[16].

While Windows Defender handles malware detection, Diskify offers an added layer of protection for managing your files securely.

How Diskify Improves Security

Diskify complements your security efforts by focusing on secure file management. It uses encrypted connections and AI-driven analysis to protect your data while helping you organize and clean up your storage.

Given that widely-used tools like Windows Defender are common targets for cyberattacks[19] and may lack advanced phishing protection compared to specialized solutions[18], incorporating Diskify into your routine adds an extra layer of safety. While not a replacement for antivirus software, Diskify’s AI-powered storage analysis and semantic folder categorization operate within a secure environment. This allows you to confidently identify and remove large files, outdated backups, and unused media without risking your system’s security.

Step 9: Use Diskify for Complete Cleanup

After addressing manual cleanups in earlier steps, Diskify steps in as an all-in-one automated solution to simplify the process. Manual methods can be tedious and time-consuming, but Diskify makes computer maintenance straightforward by consolidating cleanup tasks into a single, user-friendly tool.

Instead of switching between multiple programs or manually hunting for files to delete, Diskify provides a complete system overview in one interface. Here's how it can transform your cleanup routine.

Key Features of Diskify

Diskify offers a range of tools designed to make disk management easier and smarter:

• AI-powered storage analysis: Understands your file usage patterns and suggests smart recommendations for cleanup.

• Natural language folder search: Allows you to locate folders by simply describing them in plain English, like “photos from last summer” or “old work documents.”

• Semantic folder categorization: Automatically organizes your files into meaningful groups based on their content and purpose.

• Visual disk analysis: Interactive charts and graphs make it easy to spot areas that need attention.

• Multi-drive support: Works with external hard drives, USB drives, and network storage to give you a complete picture.

How Diskify Saves Time and Effort

With these features, Diskify drastically reduces the time and effort needed for cleanup. Tasks that might take hours manually - like sorting through large files or finding old backups - are completed in just minutes. Instead of navigating through multiple Windows utilities, you get a single scan that provides actionable recommendations.

"We built Diskify for today's digital user, blending innovation with simplicity." [20]

The software eliminates guesswork by offering clear guidance on files that can be safely removed, minimizing the risk of accidental data loss. Its intelligent file detection highlights large, redundant files and outdated backups, helping you reclaim valuable disk space without the hassle of manual searching.

Diskify is available in two plans: Diskify Basic at $29.99/year for essential tools and Diskify Pro at $49.99/year, which unlocks all AI-powered features for a more advanced experience.

Conclusion: Enjoy a Faster, Cleaner Computer

Following this checklist can breathe new life into your computer, boosting its performance and extending its lifespan. By tackling tasks like uninstalling unused applications, clearing out temporary files, organizing your desktop, managing large files, limiting startup programs, updating software, and running security scans, you've addressed the most common culprits behind sluggish systems.

"Improved system performance, enhanced data security, reduced repair costs, and an extended device lifespan" [1]

HP highlights these benefits as key outcomes of regular computer maintenance. For businesses, performing a thorough cleanup at least once a month is crucial to avoid downtime and protect against security threats [1].

While these manual steps are effective, they can also be time-intensive. That’s where tools like Diskify come in. As mentioned in Step 9, Diskify simplifies the process with AI-driven scanning, smart file organization, and natural language search, making routine maintenance less of a chore.

Now, your computer boots up faster, runs more smoothly, and has more available storage - all while minimizing security risks. Organizing and securing sensitive data also helps meet compliance standards, giving you peace of mind.

To keep things running optimally, schedule monthly cleanups [21]. Automate updates for your operating system and security software, keep startup programs in check, and consider cloud storage for important files [1]. With Diskify taking care of the heavy lifting, maintaining a clean and efficient computer becomes effortless.

The effort you’ve put into this cleanup pays off with improved productivity, fewer headaches, and a computer that works as hard as you do.

FAQs

How often should I fully clean my computer using this checklist?

It's wise to give your computer a thorough cleaning every 3 to 6 months. That said, if you're working in a particularly dusty area or start noticing your computer slowing down, you might need to clean it more often.

Keeping up with regular maintenance not only ensures your system runs efficiently but also helps prevent unnecessary clutter and could even prolong your computer's lifespan.

Are there any risks to deleting temporary and junk files, and how can I make sure I’m only removing unnecessary data?

Cleaning up temporary and junk files is generally safe, but there’s always a slight risk of deleting something that’s still needed for specific programs or system tasks. To avoid any mishaps, steer clear of manually removing files from system folders unless you’re absolutely sure of their purpose.

For a more secure and efficient cleanup, consider using reliable tools like Disk Cleanup or Diskify. These tools can automatically pinpoint and remove files that aren’t necessary. Just make sure to review the files they suggest for deletion to ensure nothing critical gets removed.

How does Diskify’s AI make cleaning up your computer faster and easier?

Diskify’s AI simplifies the process of cleaning your computer by identifying storage problems automatically and highlighting what requires immediate attention. With tailored suggestions based on your unique usage patterns, it ensures a smarter and more efficient cleanup process. This means no more wasting time manually searching for files or programs you no longer need.

Related posts

• Disk Cleanup Checklist: 10 Essential Steps

• How to Organize Files and Folders Efficiently

• Disk Cleanup for Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide