3 replies to this topic

[adw3]

I use Backup MyPC v6.0 to back up onto an external hard disk under Windows XP Professional. To free up space on the hard disk I first did a disk cleanup to delete a backup set from the catalog and then exited Backup MyPC and dragged the file from the hard disk to the Recycle Bin. Though Explorer shows that the file is no longer on the hard disk, the disk's Properties show no more free space than before.

1. How can I free up space on the hard disk?
2. Is there any danger in defragmenting files on the disk or using Windows' Disk Cleanup?

[marlinsinger]

adw3, on Nov 6 2006, 08:16 PM, said:

I use Backup MyPC v6.0 to back up onto an external hard disk under Windows XP Professional. To free up space on the hard disk I first did a disk cleanup to delete a backup set from the catalog and then exited Backup MyPC and dragged the file from the hard disk to the Recycle Bin. Though Explorer shows that the file is no longer on the hard disk, the disk's Properties show no more free space than before.

1. How can I free up space on the hard disk?
2. Is there any danger in defragmenting files on the disk or using Windows' Disk Cleanup?

Moving a file to the recycle bin does not delete it. You need to empty the recycle bin. That will physically delete it from the drive. Also if you have some product that monitors what is put in the recycle bin and allows you to bring it back after a while, the file is still there until the time period you have it set for expires.

[adw3]

Thank you for your prompt reply. Actually, the file was too big for the recycle bin, so Windows asked me if I wanted to delete it permanently, and I answered yes. Your message gave me the idea that Norton Systemworks had nevertheless kept the file on the drive for possible restoration. So I went into safe mode and emptied the Norton Protected Recycle bin for that drive manually.

Thanks again for steering me in the right direction.

[marlinsinger]

You are welcome.