The data volume keeps on growing consistently as your system grows older, and managing your computer files becomes important. With a lot of files and folders on the disk, file management seems to be tedious. There are quite a lot of ways that one can follow to optimize digital files efficiently.

 

The article explains some of the proficient ways that you can use to manage your computer files effortlessly.

 

6 ways to manage computer files more efficiently

 

#1. Save Program Files in Default Installation Folder

Use the default file location when you are downloading files from the internet, as you can easily locate them later. In Mac, you can easily find the Downloads folder under Favorites in the Finder’s sidebar. Alternatively, press Option + Command + L keys to get to the Downloads folder.

 

Save Program Files in Default Installation Folder

 

This folder can become messy over time as you might be downloading apps from various sources. For example, you might have installed a music file from Amazon and later moved it into a Music app, making the original downloaded file redundant. The actual download files may be nested, but the supported files or junk will remain in the Downloads folder.

 

 

#2. Map Network Drive for Storage

A network drive is a storage media connected to your office or home computer and not particularly to your computer. Mapping a network drive for storing data means you can easily access data saved on Apple devices, including iPhone and iPad, without the need to plug the drive into the power socket.

 

The key advantage of saving all your files and folders to the network drive is that you will get better control over your data. Network drive gives better security to files in comparison to the Cloud ecosystem. To connect to the network drive, hit Command + K in Finder to Connect to Server or click Go and then select Connect to Server.

 

 

#3. Maintain a Logical Folder Hierarchical Structure

A logical hierarchy means all your files and folders are stored in a managed structure on your computer. It helps employees to find out the files they need quickly and efficiently. While maintaining the logical folder hierarchy, it’s important to use intuitive labeling for a better understanding of files and the data stored within.

 

Maintain a good balance between findability and granularity by creating the right number of folders and storing appropriate items into them. Follow a consistent approach as it helps to navigate the folder structure using inherent logic. Moreover, maintain the integrity of data by assigning the right folder permissions.

 

 

#4. Avoid Desktop Clutter

Always try to keep your desktop neat and tidy by not saving the application Shortcuts, files, and folders everywhere. Your desktop reflects your personality, and therefore, it’s your responsibility to ensure that it’s clean. Even if you save everything on the desktop, make it a habit to move each item to its appropriate location for better file organization.

 

Avoid Desktop Clutter

 

If you do not clean your computer desktop regularly, there will be dozens of items that will accumulate in the long term, making it difficult to manage things efficiently. With a lot more items, it will be difficult to locate the right file when required. If there are fewer desktop shortcuts, it will be easier for you to maintain them on your computer.

 

 

#5. Clean Other Volumes in Container

One of the possible fixes to manage your files on a computer is to clean other volumes as the data stored there eats up considerable storage space. In Mac, APFS replaces the contemporary partition system with containers that can have multiple volumes. Sometimes, other volumes take much more space than normal, and you need to clean this volume from the Disk Utility.

 

In the Disk Utility, select the APFS volume that you wish to remove. Click on the Delete Volume sign, i.e.,- in the toolbar to remove other volumes from the hard drive. If you see the dim button, it indicates that the selected volume is in use, and you cannot delete it. To delete the volume, you will have to repeat the process from macOS Recovery mode.

 

 

#6. Move Data to Cloud Drive

Managing files on the computer takes more than just deleting unnecessary files or folders. Sometimes, you require to move data on other storage platforms such as an external drive or the Cloud media for better manageability. This helps you manage your files in an organized manner by making more storage space on the hard disk.

 

Storing data on the Cloud provides you all time and anywhere access to data from any device. You can easily manage your computer files by moving your important files to Cloud; however, do not forget to backup your data for better security. Moreover, you can password protect your files before moving them to the Cloud.

 

Following these file management tips, you can organize your files and folder on your computer efficiently. These tips will help you keep your hard drive optimized by deleting unnecessary files and removing the clutter for better storage.

 

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