How to Use MouseSoft Directory Size to Find Large Files FastMouseSoft Directory Size is a lightweight Windows utility that quickly scans folders and shows how disk space is distributed across directories and files. This article explains how to install, configure, and use Directory Size efficiently to locate and remove large files, reclaim disk space, and optimize your storage workflow.
What is MouseSoft Directory Size?
MouseSoft Directory Size is a free, portable utility for Windows that scans drives and folders to display sizes for directories and files. It’s designed to be fast and resource-light, providing sortable lists and easy navigation so you can quickly identify space hogs.
Why use it to find large files?
- Fast directory scanning reveals big folders and files at a glance.
- Portable and lightweight, so it runs without installation.
- Simple interface reduces time spent learning the tool.
- Sortable columns and filters help you focus on what matters.
Downloading and installing
- Visit the MouseSoft official site or a reputable download mirror.
- Download the latest ZIP package for Directory Size.
- Extract the ZIP to a folder — no installer required.
- Run the executable (often named DirectorySize.exe or similar).
- If Windows SmartScreen blocks it, choose “More info” → “Run anyway” after verifying the source.
Initial configuration and settings
- Run the program as Administrator when scanning system folders to ensure full access.
- Set the default scan path to your main drive (e.g., C:) or specific folders where you expect large files.
- Adjust the view: enable columns like Size, Allocated Size, and File Count.
- Use the options to exclude known system folders (e.g., Windows, Program Files) if you only want user data.
Scanning a drive or folder
- Click the folder icon or use File → Open to choose the target drive/folder.
- Start the scan — progress is shown in the status bar.
- Once complete, the program lists folders and files with sizes.
- Use the “Show files” toggle (if available) to display individual files inside selected folders.
Practical tip: For the fastest useful results, scan top-level folders first (Users, ProgramData, Downloads) to narrow down where big files live.
Sorting and filtering to find the largest items
- Click the Size column header to sort items descending and see the largest folders/files first.
- Use the search or filter box to find specific file types (e.g., *.iso, *.mkv, *.zip).
- Apply a minimum size filter (if the tool supports it) to hide everything below a threshold (e.g., >100 MB).
- Use the file extension column or enable a file type summary to identify space-heavy formats.
Example filters:
- Show only video files: .mp4;.mkv;*.avi
- Show compressed archives: .zip;.7z;*.rar
Inspecting and verifying large files
- Right-click a file or folder to open its location in File Explorer.
- Use context menu options to view properties (file size, modified date) before deletion.
- Sort by Date Modified to find old, possibly redundant large files.
Safety tips:
- Avoid deleting files from system folders unless you’re certain.
- Empty Recycle Bin after deletion to actually free space.
- Consider moving large media files to external storage or cloud backup instead of deleting.
Automating cleanups and recurring scans
- Create a routine: scan weekly or monthly to prevent storage buildup.
- Use saved scan profiles (if supported) for frequently checked folders.
- Combine Directory Size with backup tools: move files exceeding a size threshold to an archive location automatically (use scripts or third-party automation if needed).
Advanced tips
- Compare Allocated Size vs. Actual Size to find sparse files or compression effects.
- Scan network drives to locate large files on shared storage (ensure you have permission).
- Export scan results (CSV or text) for record-keeping or further analysis in a spreadsheet.
Limitations and alternatives
Limitations:
- Lacks built-in duplicate finders and advanced visualization like treemaps found in some competitors.
- Portable nature can require manual updates.
Alternatives to consider if you need more features:
| Tool | Strength |
|---|---|
| WinDirStat | Visual treemap, detailed filetype stats |
| TreeSize Free/Professional | Fast, supports export and reporting |
| SpaceSniffer | Interactive treemap, intuitive UI |
Example workflow to find and clear 20+ GB quickly
- Run Directory Size as Administrator and scan C:.
- Sort root folders by Size and note any >20 GB.
- Drill into the largest folder, enable file view, and sort by Size again.
- Identify large ISOs, VM images, or video files.
- Verify files in File Explorer, then move to external storage or delete if unnecessary.
- Empty Recycle Bin and re-scan to confirm space freed.
Conclusion
MouseSoft Directory Size is a practical, fast, and portable tool to find large files and manage disk space. With careful use of sorting, filtering, and verification steps, you can reclaim significant storage quickly and safely.
If you want, I can create step-by-step screenshots, a compact checklist you can print, or a PowerShell script to automate moving files above a certain size. Which would you prefer?
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