Apple Mac Filling Up!

[Bramleyboy]

I am not really computer literate and my Apple Desktop is filling up and slowing down.
Is there a programme that will automatically remove surplus stuff and maybe confirms with me
before doing so. I'm sure there's a lot of dross on the machine after ten years!
Any input welcomed! Many thanks, Bramley.

[JimF]

Just to be clear, the desktop has nothing to do with how much storage is left on your Mac's internal hard drive.

Be very wary of utilities which will claim to free up space. You say you are not computer literate, but I strongly suggest that you read Apple's own suggestions first: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT206996

[Buenchico]

Start here:
https://uk.crucial.com/articles/mac-users/how-to-clean-and-optimize-mac

[DTCwordfan]

or take the pc into a small Apple pc store (we have one in Truro that is still open). For about 25 squid, they'll do a complete clean up for you.....it's worth it. Can't speak for Apple but on my last purchase, I went from 44GB of 85GB used to 24 of 280GB, the 20 reduction being the removal of past Windows updates that are redundant and my bro-in-law says that Apple updates hang around too.....

[woofgang]

as a user of mac for many years, I would personally recommend Clean My Mac and Gemini II, both by macpaw. easy to use and reliable but not cheap. Available through the app store which is sort of a seal of approval from mac.

[Buenchico]

^^^ If you're taking your Mac to a technician, ask about the cost of installing a solid state drive (and, of course, transferring everything from your hard drive onto it). It's by far the best way to speed up a computer that's currently using a hard drive.

[JimF]

Also, and this is not a popular opinion round these parts, ten years is MASSIVELY old for any sort of computer.

Might you not be better off by investing in a new one? If you fancy it and are looking to save a lot of cash, buy anything other than a Mac!

[furrypusscat]

I use Clean My Mac also. I find it very good and efficient.

[Bramleyboy]

Thank you all! It’s more than I had hoped for and I can cope with this advice. I live in Devizes and the only computer shop has closed and gone with the Covid. Thank you all, Bramley.

[Buenchico]

>>> I live in Devizes and the only computer shop has closed and gone with the Covid

There are still several IT support firms, offering computer repairs and upgrades, though:

http://www.woolrych.co.uk/

http://www.elmtreeitsolutions.co.uk/

https://www.dibtech.co.uk/

https://www.twighlightzone.co.uk/

https://www.wiltshireit.co.uk/