Disk usage problems are easier to prevent than fix. A hosting account can fill up because of large files, too many backups, growing email storage, cache files or error logs.
Common causes include:
- Old backups stored inside the hosting account.
- Large image, video or download files.
- Cache folders that are not being cleared.
- Email accounts storing a large amount of mail.
- Error logs growing because of a website problem.
- Spam or malware causing unexpected files or messages.
To reduce the risk of disk usage problems:
- Remove old backups you no longer need.
- Store long-term backups away from the hosting account.
- Optimise large media files before uploading them.
- Clear cache through your website software when needed.
- Review large email accounts and remove mail you no longer need.
- Investigate large error logs rather than simply deleting them repeatedly.
You can use Disk Usage in cPanel to see which folders are using the most space.
If disk usage rises quickly or you are not sure what can be removed, contact support before deleting files.