Duplicate files can be removed manually or automatically using a software program. Automatic removal can be ad-supported and may require purchase. To manually remove files, drag them to the trash and empty it. When using a software program, choose a reliable one that is compatible with your operating system and consider trying it before purchasing.
There are essentially two ways to remove duplicate files: manually and automatically. Manually removing duplicate files involves finding and deleting files one by one. Automatic removal is performed by a duplicate file finder software program, which most operating systems do not have pre-installed. Sometimes, instead of automatically deleting all duplicates, duplicate file finders allow the user to choose which files to remove, making the process both automatic and manual. Many duplicate file finders are ad-supported adware, which means that installing the program might cause unwanted pop-ups or frequent prompts for the full program purchase.
If there are just a few files to delete, it probably won’t take long to manually remove the duplicate files. When using a Microsoft® operating system, simply drag the file to the Trash to temporarily remove it. If you are certain that the file is a duplicate that needs to be deleted, choose the Empty Trash option under Files to permanently delete its contents. When using a Mac OS® computer, the process is similar but instead of a trash can, there is a trash can icon. Regardless of the operating system used, a soft-deleted file can usually be recovered if the recycle bin or trash has not been emptied.
To remove duplicate files automatically, download and install a reliable duplicate file finder. There are a great many of these programs available, especially for Windows® operating systems. Running the program will scan your computer for duplicate files. Depending on the complexity of the program, it will ask you to delete all duplicates or choose which one to keep before removing the rest. This is the quickest way to find and delete many duplicates, but there are some drawbacks; for example, the program may be advertising-supported software or must be purchased before deleting duplicates.
When looking for a file finder that removes duplicate files, consider choosing one that is well-reviewed, especially if you’ve decided to buy one. Also make sure that the program is compatible with the operating system you are using before downloading it. If you’ve chosen to buy a duplicate file finder, try it out before you buy to avoid getting stuck with a program you don’t find useful. While some programs come with a 14 to 30 day money back guarantee, not all of them do, nor are they legally required to. You may also want to print your receipt, in case the program needs to be downloaded again later.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
