Low disk space error on Windows 2003 Server (for instance)
Although the hard drives these days offer the users jaw-dropping amount(s) of huge space enabling them utilize ample storage yet at times; the users are amazed to note that how rapidly the free space on their systems is eaten up. Reasons might be browser caches, temporary files, Windows updates or new application(s) etc but the end result is the same; the free space is gone and the system ends up cluttered. As result, a ‘Low Disk Space’ warning message appears onscreen to alert the computer users that suggest their hard drive is either running low on the disk space available or other related problem(s) have occurred.
Following the above noted message appearing onscreen, the following problems might be caused:
· Relevantly slow function of system
· No Windows updates acceptable (be installed)
· No applications acceptable (be installed)
· Low free space might crash the system eventually, until more free space is provided or created.
This is the time that the problem is better fixed by the users, as quickly as possible since no user would like to see his/her System crashed. The only choice the users would be left with will to start over again and also wait for a longer period, till the Server is kept under downtime. For example, if the users of Windows 2003 encounter such problems as Low Disk Space on their 2003 Windows Server, they must immediately take the first step: Free Up Disk Space.
Deleting the entire old tem files would be the best possible solution to the problem at hand therefore such files stored at Local Settings\Temp shall have to be removed, deleted. The users will find the step as most effective under the situation that will enable them recover ample hard disk space. Following is the address or path to the Temp folder that can be copied and pasted in the address bar:
“C:\Documents and Settings\Administrator\Local Settings\Temp”.
The users of Windows 2003 Server will however have to change or replace the word ‘Administrator’ in the path to ‘Username.’ Now leave the rest to the system that will automatically work for you.
Next step would be the use of Windows Disk Cleanup facility which can be done by opening My Computer, a click on desired drive (to get free space in) and clicking on ‘Properties.’ There the users will find ‘Disk Cleanup’ button. An array of options will thus appear onscreen within a couple of minutes, including deleting or compressing old file(s) options. ‘Compress Drive’ option is also available in the same window.
- Internet Temp Files also consume lot of space therefore; delete them as well to obtain more Free Disk Space.
- Though not recommended yet; Moving Page Files is also a good option (such files are located mostly on C-Drive).
- Disable Hibernation since nearly 512MB space is consumed if the function is on.
The Good
Above mentioned tools and steps provide the users with free disk space since these tools are capable of disabling the low disk space warning on Windows 2003 Server. However, extending a system’s C Drive is the best and permanent solution to low disk space issue(s).
The Bad
As mentioned above, the use of few tools listed above is only a temporary solution thus the users of Windows 2003 Server in particular, will require further steps that may increase space on C-Drive. All other data partition(s) already existing must shrink i.e. C drive extended by adding the extra free space thus obtained.
The Verdict
Steps to increase C drive space fast and easy might include Launching Partition Assistant Server, selecting “Resize” from the pop-up window for holding the Unallocated space, clicking ‘Apply’ and you are done.
