Temporary Files

• Windows and other programs, such as Web browsers, create files on the hard drive for their own use. If there isn't room for these files, the software may not operate properly or as quickly as it should.
  
  

Disk Cleanup

• Windows provides Disk Cleanup, a utility that helps you clear space on your hard drive. Type "Disk Cleanup" into the search box on your "Start" menu. Disk Cleanup will give you information on the types of files it recommends deleting and let you decide what to delete.
  
  

Recycle Bin

• You can easily recover files that have been deleted as long as the Recycle Bin has not been emptied. To restore a deleted file, double-click on "Recycle Bin." If the file is listed in there, click on it and then click on "Restore this item" in the window's toolbar.
  
  

Recovery Beyond the Recycle Bin

• If the file isn't in the Recycle Bin, it may be possible to recover it with utility software such as Norton UnErase, which is included in Symantec's Norton Utilities; Avanquest's System Suite 11 Professional; and iCare Data Recovery.