How to Disable the Hibernation File in Windows 7

So you are running Windows7 on your computer and you see a large hibernation file.  The hibernation file is, in essence, only useful on laptops/netbooks; devices that run on battery power.  Basically the hibernation file stores the last state of your machine as it is gracefully shutdown when your computer has reached the low battery threshold as defined by your system and or you, the user.  The file can be quite large sometimes, usually in the 5-7gb range (your experiences will vary).  The space used by this file can sometimes come in handy when you have a machine that is limited in space and does not necessarily require a hibernation file.  Here are a few quick tips:

Check the size of your hibernation file by going to Folder Options in the Control Panel and enabling the view of hidden and system files. Simply Browse to the C drive and view the file in the root.  In my case it was 12gb on a desktop, and thus I removed it…

Folder Options Screen Shot:

If you are certain that you do not need this functionality and want to get rid of the file and reclaim space, follow these simple steps:

1. Run the command prompt, as an administrator. (Start -All Programs-Accessories-Right Click on Command Prompt-Select Run as Administrator)
2. Once at the Command Prompt type: powercfg -h off  (Screen Shot Below)
3. Voila its gone and you have reclaimed your space.  Be aware on a laptop and or netbook that you no longer can depend on this functionality.

If you decide that you do, in fact, need this functionality then simply follow the steps above and type: “powercfg -h on” to reinstate the hibernation file.

Hope this tip is somewhat helpful.  Please share your thoughts and or experiences via the commenting system so that we can all learn.