So many problems can arise from having duplicate data on your computer. You could end up causing system errors, slow loading times and overall reduced performance. Commonly when people have low disk space an error message will pop up, this error message means you will need to free up space in order to install or add new data to your system, and getting rid of duplicates will greatly increase your space.
Why Do I have Duplicate Files?
Obtaining duplicates is very easy. They could come from almost anything that will change your system; computer games, software, downloads, updates, and the list goes on. One of the main problems that people face is when they uninstall software. If you don't remove all of the files properly and then reinstall the files you will end up with duplicates. Another way people end up with duplicates is by saving items into folders, forgetting where they are and then saving the files back onto the system in a different place. Having an organized computer will really help you reduce the amount of duplicate files you create.
How To Search For Duplicate Files Manually
If you decide to manually locate and remove your duplicates you should prepare yourself to be in it for the long haul. Although this method can be very effective, it isn't very efficient and I would only recommend going down this route if you don't have many duplicate on your system. To manually search for duplicates you must:
1. Open up the My Computer icon.
2. In the search bar at the top of the page type in the name of the file type that contains duplicates. For example; if you are looking for pictures you would search for jpg, gif or png files.
3. Wait for windows to search your computer.
4. Arrange all of the icons to display alphabetically.
5. Remove the files that have a number on the end of the name. For example; if you had two files, one named FILE and the other FILE1, then delete FILE1. If you aren't to sure if they are the same then you will need to view the files by double clicking.
6. Empty your recycle bin and then restart your computer.
As you can imagine, this can take a very long time. Also, if you have duplicate information inside your system registry DO NOT DELETE THEM! This can be very harmful to your computer and you could end up corrupting other software.
How To Delete Duplicate Files Automatically
If you want to bypass the manual process then you could download software that will locate and delete duplicates. Using specialist software is the only way to safely remove files from the registry. Doing this can improve your overall system performance, speed up your computer and free up disk space.
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