Checking Disk Quota and Managing File Storage

There are several methods available for reviewing your current disk usage and available quota. For complete instructions and additional details, please refer to the CAE knowledge base article on disk quota and space usage .

Reducing Disk Usage

If your account is approaching or exceeding its storage limit, use one or more of the following methods to remove unnecessary files from your CAE file space.

1. Delete files from a CAE Windows computer.
   Sign in to a CAE-managed Windows workstation and remove any files you no longer need from your file space.
2. Delete files through MyFiles.
   Go to https://myfiles.cae.wisc.edu and sign in using your CAE credentials to manage and delete files directly.
   
   Note: If you are accessing this service off campus, you must first connect to the campus VPN.
3. Delete files from a CAE Linux system.
   Open a Terminal session and remove files using standard Linux commands such as rm filename.

After deleting files, be sure to empty the Recycle Bin or Trash. Storage updates are not always immediate; please allow up to 30 minutes for the system to reflect the changes before checking your quota again.

If you need to retain files but free up space, consider moving them to DoIT Box , or to approved external storage such as a flash drive or other secure media.

Reducing Disk Usage After the Grace Period

Users are typically provided a 7-day grace period to bring their account back under quota while maintaining access to their files. Once this grace period has expired, file movement may be restricted. In cases where an account is significantly over quota, file movement may be blocked immediately and the grace period may not apply. In these situations, files must be deleted until the account returns below quota.

Before taking further action, empty the Recycle Bin or Trash and then verify whether your account has returned below the quota threshold. If additional cleanup is needed, use one of the options below.

1. Use a CAE Linux system.
   Empty the Trash through the graphical interface, or open Terminal and permanently remove files using commands such as rm filename.
2. Use permanent deletion in Windows File Explorer.
   Select the files you want to remove, then press Shift + Delete to permanently delete them without sending them to the Recycle Bin.

If you are still unable to reduce your disk usage sufficiently or continue to experience issues deleting files, please contact the CAE Help Desk for assistance.