Any Windows user is familiar with the hibernation system. It’s a defensive mechanism that keeps your computer running & turned off. A bit confused, right? Hibernation is a storage consuming process that takes a lot of disk space, generally around 2-4 gigabytes.
How Windows hibernates
Here’s how the system works. The state of the RAM (including all the running programs, opened documents etc.) is stored on the hard drive by Windows. Then, the OS turns off the computer mostly; only running enough to recall the pre-hibernation state. The data is saved in the “hiberfil.sys” file in “C” drive.
Hibernation is mostly designed for laptops. It’s extremely efficient power saving mode. If you decide not to use your laptop for quite a long period, you can use the “Hibernation” option.
Most definitely, we don’t need to hibernate our laptops so often. Unless you’re a traveler, hibernation system is not so much useful. It’s especially true for home users who have continuous access to power source.
How to delete “hiberfil.sys”
It’s quite safe to disable hibernation unless you frequently use it. This will free up a few gigabytes of your “C” drive and let more storage space to breathe freely.
For Windows 7, 8, 8.1 and 10, follow the steps.
- Start an elevated Command Prompt.
- Type “cmd” in the search bar.
- Right-click and select “Run as administrator”.
- Run the following command:
powercfg.exe /hibernate off
- Restart your laptop or PC.
For Windows XP, follow these steps:
- Go to Start menu >> Control Panel.
- Click “Power Options”.
- From the “Power Options Properties” dialog box, go to “Hibernate” tab.
- Uncheck “Enable Hibernation”.
- Restart your computer.
How to re-enable hibernation
If you need to hibernate your computer, just follow these steps to enable hibernation again.
For Windows 7, 8, 8.1 and 10, run this command in the elevated Command Prompt:
powercfg.exe /hibernate on
For Windows XP, follow the same steps stated above and check “Enable Hibernation”.
Your PC now has the ability to hibernate once again.
