How to Remove Memory Dump Files on Windows

What Causes This?

Memory dump files are created when Windows crashes with a blue screen, freezes badly, or hits a serious system error. These files are meant to help diagnose the problem, but Windows often leaves them behind after the issue is over. Over time, full dumps, kernel dumps, and small dump files can build up and take several gigabytes of disk space.

Common Symptoms

• Your C: drive is low on space for no obvious reason
• You find large files like MEMORY.DMP or folders full of .dmp files
• Disk Cleanup shows “System error memory dump files”
• Windows feels cramped on storage, especially on smaller SSDs
• You recently had a crash or blue screen and space usage suddenly increased

How to Fix It Manually

1. Check whether memory dump files are taking up space

   • Open File Explorer with Win + E.
   • Go to C:\Windows.
   • Look for a file named MEMORY.DMP.
   • Also check C:\Windows\Minidump for smaller .dmp files.

2. Use Disk Cleanup to remove old dump files safely

   • Press Win + S, type Disk Cleanup, and open it.
   • Select your C: drive and click OK.
   • Click Clean up system files.
   • Select C: again if prompted.
   • In the list, check:
     • System error memory dump files
     • System error minidump files
   • You can also review other cleanup items, but only select what you want removed.
   • Click OK, then click Delete Files.

3. Delete dump files manually if needed

   • If Disk Cleanup does not remove them, open File Explorer and go back to:
     • C:\Windows\MEMORY.DMP
     • C:\Windows\Minidump
   • Delete the files you no longer need.
   • If Windows says you need permission, click Continue as administrator.
   • If a file is in use, restart your PC and try again.

4. Use Storage Sense in Windows Settings

   • Press Win + I to open Settings.
   • Go to System > Storage.
   • Click Temporary files.
   • Look for entries related to crash dumps or system error files.
   • Check them, then click Remove files.

5. Make sure you are not deleting a file you still need for troubleshooting

   • If your PC is actively crashing and you are working with IT support, a repair shop, or a developer, keep the latest dump file until they review it.
   • If the crash problem is already solved, it is usually safe to remove old dump files.

6. Reduce future dump file size if crashes happen again

   • Press Win + R, type sysdm.cpl, and press Enter.
   • Open the Advanced tab.
   • Under Startup and Recovery, click Settings.
   • Under Write debugging information, choose Small memory dump or Automatic memory dump instead of Complete memory dump.
   • Click OK to save.

Fix It Automatically with Kudu

Kudu can scan your system for leftover memory dump files, minidumps, and other hidden junk that wastes disk space. Instead of hunting through Windows folders and cleanup menus, you can let Kudu find safe-to-remove files and clean them up in a few clicks.

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