How to Fix “Other People” Taking Up Storage on Windows? Proven Solutions for Annoying Disk Space Problems

Why Is “Other People” Using So Much Storage in Windows? Effective Fixes for Frustrating Space Issues

When Windows reports that “Other People” are consuming significant storage space, it often confuses users—especially if you are the only one using the device. This storage category typically refers to files and data associated with other user accounts on the PC, including inactive or leftover profiles. Sometimes, it may also indicate hidden files, system bloat, or, in rare cases, malware.

Understanding the Issue

“Other People” in Windows Storage Settings refers to space used by user accounts other than the one currently logged in. This space can include documents, downloads, app data, and cached files belonging to these accounts. Occasionally, Windows may misattribute space to “Other People” due to system errors or hidden files not visible in File Explorer.

Effective Methods to Free Up Space

Solution 1: Remove Unused User Accounts and Their Data

Unused or old user accounts can accumulate large amounts of data. Deleting these accounts and their associated files is a direct way to reclaim storage.

Steps to Remove User Accounts:

1. Open the Start menu and go to Settings.
2. Select “Accounts,” then “Family & other users.”
3. Click the account you wish to remove and select “Remove.”
4. Confirm by choosing “Delete account and data.”
5. Repeat for any other unnecessary accounts.

Note: You must have administrator privileges to delete user accounts.

Solution 2: Run a Full Virus and Malware Scan

Unusual storage usage under “Other People” might be caused by malware or a virus masquerading as a user profile.

How to Scan for Malware:

1. Open Settings and go to “Update & Security.”
2. Select “Windows Security” > “Virus & threat protection.”
3. Click “Scan options,” choose “Full scan,” and start the scan.
4. Follow any prompts to remove detected threats.

Tip: Consider using reputable third-party antivirus tools for a second opinion.

Solution 3: Use Disk Cleanup Utility

Disk Cleanup is a built-in Windows tool that helps delete unnecessary files, including those left by other users or system processes.

Steps to Run Disk Cleanup:

1. Type “Disk Cleanup” in the Windows search bar and open the app.
2. Select the drive you want to clean (usually C:).
3. Check the boxes for files to delete (e.g., temporary files, system files).
4. Click “OK,” then “Delete Files” to confirm.

Solution 4: Enable and Configure Storage Sense

Storage Sense automates the cleanup of temporary files, downloads, and content in the Recycle Bin.

How to Enable Storage Sense:

1. Go to Settings > System > Storage.
2. Toggle on “Storage Sense.”
3. Configure it to run automatically and specify what types of files to remove.

Solution 5: Use Third-Party Disk Analysis Tools

If built-in tools don’t reveal what’s taking up space, use apps like WizTree or TreeSize Free to scan your drive for large or hidden files.

Additional Tips

• Check “C:\Users” for leftover folders from deleted accounts.
• Review AppData and ProgramData for hidden files.
• Move large personal files to external storage if needed.
• Uninstall unused applications and games.

By following these methods, you can efficiently identify and reclaim storage space taken up by “Other People” in Windows, ensuring your system runs smoothly and has ample free space for your needs.