How to Delete the Hibernation File in Windows 11: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Getting Rid of That Annoying Hibernation File on Windows 11

Hibernation in Windows 11? It’s a handy feature, no doubt, but let’s be honest — it can leave behind a big ol’ file called hiberfil.sys that can gobble up quite a bit of space, sometimes almost as much as your RAM. When your drive starts filling up, deleting this file can be a real game-changer. The good news? It’s pretty straightforward — just disable hibernation using Command Prompt, and the file will disappear.

How to Remove the Hibernation File Once and for All

Here’s the scoop: turning off hibernation will delete that pesky file and free up some much-needed space on your drive.

Open Command Prompt as Administrator

Start by launching Command Prompt with admin rights. Hit the Windows key, type “cmd” in the search, then right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator. Trust me, it’s crucial—without admin privileges, you won’t be able to make the necessary changes. Alternatively, press Windows + S, type cmd, then press Ctrl + Shift + Enter. That’ll do the trick.

Disable Hibernation Mode

In that elevated Command Prompt window, type powercfg.exe /hibernate off and press Enter. This command disables hibernation and automatically removes the hiberfil.sys file. Depending on your RAM size, you could free up several gigabytes. For a more visual approach, you can also disable hibernation through Settings:

Settings > System > Power & battery > Additional power settings > Choose what the power buttons do > Change settings that are currently unavailable > Uncheck Hibernate

Verify the File Is Gone

After running the command, it’s a good idea to double-check that the hiberfil.sys file has been removed. Go to the root of your main drive, typically C:\, and enter:

dir C:\hiberfil.sys

If you see a “File not found” message, you’re all set! If it’s still lurking around, try running Command Prompt as an administrator again, or simply restart your PC — sometimes a quick reboot does the trick.

Heads up: once you turn off hibernation and delete the file, you won’t be able to hibernate until you enable the feature again. If you change your mind later, just run powercfg.exe /hibernate on to turn it back on.

Things to Consider About Hibernation on Windows 11

Think about whether you actually use hibernation regularly. If it’s handy for you, perhaps best to keep it enabled.
Not comfortable with Command Prompt? No worries — seek a bit of help or do some research first. Better to be safe than sorry!
Always run Command Prompt as an administrator to ensure everything goes smoothly.
If you’re new to commands, learning a few basics can really save you some headaches down the line.
After disabling hibernation, keep an eye on your system’s behaviour — some things like quick restarts might be faster.

Frequently Asked Questions About Removing the Hibernation File

What is the hibernation file for?

The hiberfil.sys file acts like your system’s safety net. It stores your current session’s state when you hibernate, so when you turn your PC back on, everything’s just as you left it.

Is it safe to delete this file?

Yes, it’s safe to delete — it won’t harm your system. Doing so just turns off hibernation and frees up some storage space. But remember, once it’s gone, you won’t be able to hibernate until you turn it back on.

How large is the hibernation file usually?

The size varies based on your RAM. Typically, it’s around 75% of your total RAM. So, if you’ve got 16 GB, the file could be about 12 GB. It’s worth considering if your storage is running tight.

Can I re-enable hibernation after deleting the file?

Absolutely. Just open Command Prompt again and run powercfg.exe /hibernate on — your hibernation file will be recreated.

Is deleting the hibernation file risky?

Not at all! It’s safe in terms of your system’s integrity. The only downside? You won’t be able to hibernate your PC until you turn it back on. If that’s important to you, just keep hibernation enabled.

Quick Recap

Open Command Prompt as an administrator (Windows + S, type cmd, then Ctrl + Shift + Enter).
Type powercfg.exe /hibernate off.
Check that hiberfil.sys is gone from your main drive.

Clearing out features like hibernation can give your Windows 11 a much-needed boost in free space and potentially improve overall performance. It’s a straightforward process and can make a noticeable difference, especially if your drive’s feeling a bit cramped. Remember — if you ever want to turn hibernation back on, it’s just a couple of clicks or commands away. Take your time, and don’t be afraid to tinker with settings — a well-optimised system makes life much easier.