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Forum Discussion
Exceeding Dropbox Basic storage and need to delete any duplicate files
Hi
I have exceeded the 2 gb of free Dropbox Basic storage (in UK) - only by a small amount but it has stopped syncing. I do not want to upgrade, so am hoping to delete or find duplicated documents to delete.
I only use Dropbox to backup my laptop. The one folder I back up is size 1.74 gb (as found on the Properties bit on the laptop).
I have deleted some files but it hasn't made much difference. I just have a feeling I am somehow duplicating back up items.
1) My Personal Dropbox storage states it's full with 733.3 mb 'Regular Files' and 1.3 gb 'Backup'. I'm not sure of the difference here, is there a chance Regular Files are duplicated and included in Backup? Hoping I can delete Regular Files. I have no shared files.
2) As well as my one folder Dropbox says I am backing up 'Desktop', size is 170 mb. Do I need to back up Desktop?
Thank you for any help you can give.
Skell
- Mark
Super User II
Yes they probably are duplicated. But dont forget that they work as 2 different systems. So backup wont let you edit/change/share etc. it is just a 'container' of all files. You cannot get things out to do with it anything - it restores it all.
As for desktop - that's only something you can decide...
Hi Mark
Thank you for replying so quickly.
Apologies but I only have a very basic knowledge of Dropbox.
I don't know what the 2 different systems are that you refer to.
I'm backing documents up in case my laptop ever stops working. I presume that I can download documents from my Dropbox backup and save them to a new laptop and then be able to edit them, etc as I wish?
Is that correct?
Also, how would I delete the Regular Files - as they are only noted on the coloured bar in the overview of my account showing the storage breakdown? Where are they actually listed?
Thank you.
Skell
- Mark
Hi @Skell
Yes thats how backup works.
However, what I mean is that the backup files are pretty much locked to that.
You cannot do things like you can the regular unbacked up ones. For example share between devices (so open them on a phone, or a laptop), share them with a family friend etc.
Those files show at www.dropbox.com/home
