How to Delete Backup Files in Windows 10

Backing up data is a common practice among Windows users, ensuring the safety and security of essential files. However, as time progresses, accumulated backup files can lead to disk space challenges, necessitating the need to delete old backups in Windows 10. This article explores effective methods to manage and optimize storage by removing outdated backup files, ensuring a seamless computing experience.

What is the need for Data Backup?

In the realm of data backup, the benefits are undeniable – safeguarding files against unforeseen events and potential data loss. Yet, the very act of preserving these backups can inadvertently pose storage issues. As backup frequency increases, users may find themselves grappling with limited disk space, prompting the critical task of deleting old backup files.

How to Delete Backup Files in Windows 10

1. Delete backup files using File History 

Windows 10 offers built-in tools for managing backup files, with File History Cleanup being a valuable asset. Navigating through the Control Panel and accessing File History settings provides users with the option to delete previous versions of folders and files, streamlining storage and addressing disk space concerns.

1. Open Control Panel:

Begin by clicking on the Windows icon and typing “Control Panel,” selecting the best match.

2. Access System and Security:

Within the Control Panel, navigate to the “System and Security” section.

3. Enter File History:

Locate and enter the “File History” settings.

4. Advanced Settings:

Proceed to the “Advanced Settings” option, triggering the “Clean up versions” dialog.

5. Execute Cleanup:

Within the dialog, select the desired timeframe to delete older versions of files and folders, initiating the cleanup process. Patience is key, especially for extended periods.

2. Command Prompt Mastery

For users seeking a more hands-on approach, the Command Prompt offers a powerful method to delete old backup files. Leveraging the fhmanagew.exe program, users can execute cleanup based on File History records, providing granular control over the deletion process.

1. Click the Windows +R shortcut key to open the run box. Now type cmd in the box. 
2. Now the command prompt window will open up. Type the command to delete the particular time files you don’t want in your Windows PC. 
3. If you want to delete the data of more than 1 month type – Fhmanagew.Exe-cleanup30.
4. For more than 3 months, type- Fhmanage.Exe-cleanup90.
5. For more than 6 months, type- Fhmanage.Exe-180. 
6. It may be possible that you are not able to delete the older files. In that case, try to remove the recent files by using the above command to delete data of more than 1 month. 

3. Delete image data by managing backup disk space. 

Generally, in Windows 10, as long as you activate the backup plan, the whole backup data gets stored in the default folders. So, in this case, you need to change the settings of the Windows backup disc. In this way, your system will stop creating a backup of the files you don’t need. Let’s check how it is done. 

• Click on the shortcut key Windows + R to open the run box. Type cmd in the box section. 
• As you press the Enter key, click on the Backup and restore option. 
• After you click on the above-mentioned tab, choose Manage space. 
• When you choose the manage disk space, it will give you two options. 

• View backup
• Change settings 

• With the View Backup option, you can choose the particular time you want to delete the documents. At the same time, Change settings give you an option to delete the system image so that your system gets free space. 

4. Delete the system backup folder 

If you are using a Windows 10 PC, you can view a backup folder named Windows. Old in the system folder. This new built-in folder stores the data, files, and application installation files of the older version. The software file copies do nothing but occupy much of the backup space in your system. So, let’s dig into the process of managing the disk space. 

• Right-click on the local disk to choose the properties option. 
• As the Properties window opens up, click on disk clean-up, then choose Clean system files. 
• You can see the list of ‘files to delete’ containing a box of ‘Previous Windows installation.’ Click OK to delete the installation files. 
• If you are using a Windows PC, you might have dealt with the slow working of your PC. It’s all happening because of the unnecessarily loaded files occupying your system. It’s important to regularly take good care of your PC to make your system work as fine as when you bought it. 

Therefore, to help you resolve your issue, we have listed down 4 simple ways to delete backup files from Windows 10. You can choose any of the four ways to delete the backup files from Windows 10. 

Strategic Backup Management

While these methods offer effective means to delete old backup files in Windows 10, users may also consider adopting a strategic approach to backup management. Exploring third-party solutions like Wondershare Recoverit provides a comprehensive backup strategy, minimizing the need for frequent deletions. By combining built-in tools with external applications, users can strike a balance between data preservation and efficient disk space utilization.

Conclusion

In the dynamic landscape of Windows 10, managing old backup files is a pivotal aspect of maintaining system health and storage efficiency. The methods discussed – utilizing File History Cleanup and mastering Command Prompt cleanup – empower users to reclaim valuable disk space without compromising data integrity.

Whether opting for built-in tools or embracing external applications, a thoughtful and strategic approach to deleting old backup files ensures a harmonious coexistence between data security and optimized storage in the Windows 10 ecosystem.