A software crash or freeze, resulting in data not being saved.Hardware failure, such as a head crash in a hard disk.Power failure, resulting in data in volatile memory not being saved to permanent memory.Accidental deletion of a file or program.Intentional deletion of a file or program.Data loss is also distinct from data breach, an incident where data falls into the wrong hands, although the term data loss has been used in those incidents. Although the two have substantially similar consequences for users, data unavailability is temporary, while data loss may be permanent. Data loss can also occur if the physical medium containing the data is lost or stolen.ĭata loss is distinguished from data unavailability, which may arise from a network outage. Information systems implement backup and disaster recovery equipment and processes to prevent data loss or restore lost data. Then expand them when you need to use them again.ĭid you empty the Trash? When you move a file to the Trash, its storage space doesn't become available until you empty the Trash.Data loss is an error condition in information systems in which information is destroyed by failures (like failed spindle motors or head crashes on hard drives) or neglect (like mishandling, careless handling or storage under unsuitable conditions) in storage, transmission, or processing. If you don't want to delete certain files, you might be able to save space by compressing them. Check the Users folder on Macintosh HD for any shared files that you no longer need to share.If your Mac is set up for multiple users, delete users that no longer need access to your Mac. Or ask them to follow the steps in this article after logging in to their user account. Also check the Users folder on Macintosh HD for any undeleted data belonging to deleted users.If you use your Mac to back up your iPhone or iPad, you can delete old backups.Also choose Mailbox > Erase Deleted Items. If you use the Mail app for your email, choose Mailbox > Erase Junk Mail from the menu bar in Mail.Delete files in your Downloads folder. Open this folder from the Dock, or by choosing Go > Downloads from the menu bar in the Finder.Delete music, movies, podcasts, or other media, especially if it's media that you can stream or download again as needed.You can also delete files that you no longer need. If you have another storage device, such as an external drive connected to your Mac, you can move files to that device. Media files such as photos and videos can use a lot of storage space, so you can take steps such as these:

Clean mac other storage