AOMEI Partition Assistant for Recovery
Computer Storage Full But No Files? Fix It And Recover the Files!
Many reasons will lead to computer storage full but no files, such as virus, malware, corruption, and so on, which also cause data loss. This passage will give you targeted fixes and help you recover lost data.
By Irene / Updated on March 20, 2025
Why is computer storage full but no files?
Sometimes, your computer’s storage, like the C or D drive, may appear full even though you don’t see any files. This can happen due to hidden files, malware, or unintentional large file storage. More importantly, these issues can also lead to data loss if not addressed in time. Below are the common causes and risks:
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Virus or Malware – Malicious programs can create hidden files that take up space and may also delete, corrupt, or encrypt important data, leading to permanent loss.
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Unintentional Large Files – Large downloads or system backups can consume storage without you realizing it. If your drive is full, new files may fail to save, and system performance may suffer, increasing the risk of crashes and data loss.
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System and Temporary Files – Accumulated temporary files and old system data can reduce available storage, leading to system instability. In some cases, critical files may be overwritten or lost.
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File System Errors – Corrupted files or file system issues can cause incorrect storage readings and may even make stored files inaccessible or unrecoverable.
Since these issues can result in data loss, it’s important to regularly check your storage, scan for malware, and clear unnecessary files. Taking preventive measures can help protect your data and keep your computer running smoothly.
How to fix drive storage full but no files?
This section shares 3 easy and practical fixes for resolving the "computer storage full but no files" issue. If you also experience data loss along with this problem, you can move to the next section to recover your files in time.
Fix 1. Scan the virus and malware on your computer
Viruses and malware are common causes of computer storage full but no files and can even lead to data loss. Regularly scanning your device for viruses is essential to prevent these issues.
Windows 10 and 11 come with Windows Security, which provides continuous antivirus protection from the moment you start your PC. It constantly scans for malware, viruses, and security threats. With this free virus scan tool, you can effectively detect and remove malware from your PC.
Step 1. Press "Windows + I" at the same time to open Settings window and click "Update & Security".
Step 2. Select "Windows Security" on the left panel and choose "Open Windows Security".
Step 3. In Windows Security window, go to "Virus & threat protection" > "Scan options".
Step 4. Select "Microsoft Defender Offline scan", and then click "Scan now".
The Microsoft Defender Offline scan takes about 15 minutes to run, and then your PC will restart.
Fix 2. Show hidden files
Hidden files also take up storage space, causing Windows storage full but no files. You can unhide files through Folder Settings to check if there’s anything you can delete to free up space.
Step 1. Launch File Explorer and press the three dots in the right-up corner, and select “Options”.
Step 2. In the Folder Options window, go to the “View” tab.
Step 3. Under “Advanced settings,” mark the checkbox next to “Show hidden files, folders, and drives.”
Step 4. Choose “Apply” and “OK” to save the change.
The folders and files will appear in File Explorer. If you wish to hide the files, repeat the steps and mark the checkbox next to “Don’t show hidden files, folders, and drives.”
Fix 3. Remove hibernate files
n Windows, a substantial portion of your RAM is use to accommodate the hibernation file. When your computer's RAM clocks in at a generous 8 gigabytes, the hibernation file (referred to as hiberfil.sys) stakes its claim at approximately 4 gigabytes. It might be among the contributing factors to the problem of computer full but no files.
Step 1. Open the Start menu, type "cmd," right-click on Command Prompt, and pick "Run as administrator."
Step 2. Type "powercfg.exe / hibernate off" and press Enter.
This should help you free up space on your computer drive.
Further reading: How to recover lost data?
Viruses, malware, and file corruption not only cause the "storage full but no files" issue but can also lead to data loss. If you don’t have a backup, the most efficient way to recover lost files is by using a data recovery tool like AOMEI Partition Assistant for Recovery.
✔ Wide Compatibility – Supports Windows 11/10/8/7 and Windows Server.
✔ Versatile File Recovery – Recovers over 1,000 file types, including Word, Excel, PPT, photos, and more.
✔ Multiple Storage Devices – Works with HDDs, SSDs, USB drives, SD cards, and more.
✔ Smart Recovery – Simply select the target drive and storage path to retrieve lost or deleted files quickly.
✔ User-Friendly Interface – Even with advanced features like recovering from a crashed PC, the process is smooth and easy.
With just a few clicks, you can restore lost photos, videos, and documents from your Windows computer. Download AOMEI Partition Assistant for Recovery to secure your data today!
Step 1. Install and launch AOMEI Partition Assistant for Recovery. Choose the exact partition or disk where your data lost and click Scan.
Step 2. Then, the recovery tool start to scan and search. lt will execute the “Quickly Scan" first for finding your deleted data fast, and then execute the “Deep Scan" for searching other lost data.
Step 3. Once the scan is completed, all deleted files, recycle bins and other missing files will be displayed. Please select the file you would like to recover and then click "Recover".
Step 4. Then, select a folder path to save your recovered files.
Step 5. Wait patiently for this process of recovering ends.
Conclusion
A "storage full but no files" issue can be frustrating and may even lead to data loss if not addressed properly. Common causes include hidden files, malware, large system files, and file system errors. By scanning for viruses, showing hidden files, and removing unnecessary system files like hibernate data, you can free up space and restore normal storage functionality.
If data loss has already occurred, using a reliable recovery tool like AOMEI Partition Assistant for Recovery can help retrieve lost files quickly and efficiently. Regular maintenance, including malware scans and storage checks, will keep your computer running smoothly and protect your important data.
