Windows Disk and Storage Problems Explained

Fix Disk Space, Drive Errors, and Storage Performance Issues

Storage problems in Windows often appear as low disk space warnings, slow file transfers, or drives not being detected.

This guide walks through safe diagnostics and fixes for Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Step 1: Check Available Disk Space

1. Open Settings > System > Storage

2. Identify which drive is low on space

Step 2: Run Storage Cleanup

1. Click Temporary files

2. Select safe cleanup options

3. Click Remove files

Step 3: Check Drive Health

1. Open Command Prompt (Admin)

2. Run:
   chkdsk /f

3. Restart if prompted

Step 4: Fix External Drives Not Detected

1. Press Windows + X > Disk Management

2. Assign a drive letter if missing

Step 5: Improve Disk Performance

• Avoid nearly full drives

• Use SSDs for system drives

• Replace failing cables

When Disk Problems Continue

• Back up data immediately

• Replace failing drives

Return to the Top 50 Windows Computer Problems hub for related issues.