If you’re looking to free up some space on your Windows 10 computer, you might want to delete the hibernation file. This file stores the contents of your RAM when your computer hibernates, but it can take up a significant amount of your hard drive. Deleting it is straightforward and involves using the Command Prompt to disable hibernation.
How to Delete Hibernation File Windows 10
The following steps will guide you through deleting the hibernation file on your Windows 10 system. You will use the Command Prompt to turn off hibernation, which will automatically remove the hibernation file.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
Open the Start menu, type "cmd," right-click on Command Prompt, and select "Run as administrator."
This is important because you need administrative privileges to modify system files.
Step 2: Disable Hibernation
In the Command Prompt window, type powercfg -h off and press Enter.
This command turns off hibernation and automatically deletes the hibernation file.
Step 3: Verify the Deletion
Check your C: drive to verify that the hibernation file (hiberfil.sys) has been removed.
You should notice that you’ve gained some additional free space on your drive.
Step 4: Close Command Prompt
Type "exit" and press Enter to close the Command Prompt window.
This step completes the process, ensuring that no further commands are accidentally executed.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
Restart your computer to ensure that all changes take effect.
A quick reboot helps your system apply the changes more effectively.
After completing these steps, the hibernation file will be deleted, freeing up some valuable disk space on your computer.
Tips for How to Delete Hibernation File Windows 10
- Check Disk Space: Before and after deleting the hibernation file, check your disk space to see how much space you’ve saved.
- Re-enable Hibernation: If you decide you need hibernation later, you can re-enable it by typing
powercfg -h onin the Command Prompt. - Back Up: Always consider backing up important data before making system changes.
- Use Disk Cleanup: For additional space savings, use the Disk Cleanup tool in Windows.
- Update Regularly: Keeping your system updated can help manage files and disk space more effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does deleting the hibernation file affect my system?
No, it only disables the hibernation feature, freeing up disk space without affecting system performance.
Can I re-enable hibernation later?
Yes, you can re-enable it by typing powercfg -h on in Command Prompt.
Is it safe to delete the hibernation file?
Yes, it is safe as long as you don’t need the hibernation feature.
How much space will I gain?
The space gained varies, but it’s typically equal to the amount of your installed RAM.
Will this affect my sleep mode?
No, sleep mode will still function normally. Only the hibernation feature is disabled.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Disable Hibernation with
powercfg -h off. - Verify the deletion of the hibernation file.
- Close Command Prompt.
- Restart your computer.
Conclusion
Deleting the hibernation file on Windows 10 is a quick way to free up valuable disk space. By following the steps outlined, you can safely disable hibernation and remove the large hiberfil.sys file from your system. Whether you’re running low on disk space or simply looking to optimize your computer, this method is effective and easy to execute. If you ever need the hibernation feature again, re-enabling it is just as straightforward. For those interested in further optimizing their computer, consider looking into other disk cleanup methods or even upgrading your hardware for more storage capacity. Keep your system running smoothly and efficiently by managing your disk space wisely!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.