Make a backup, choose a reliable master copy, check scan mode, verify selections and test recovery. File deduplication should be reversible wherever possible.
What to know before you begin
Make a backup, choose a reliable master copy, check scan mode, verify selections and test recovery. File deduplication should be reversible wherever possible. The project offers several scanning modes and the current version may place controls differently in Krokiet versus the older GTK GUI. Follow the meaning of the option you see, not just a screenshot from a different release.
For Windows, verify that your chosen folder is accessible and that the correct graphical frontend is running. The recommended approach starts with a small test set, especially when an action could rename, move, delete or link files.
Step-by-step: What should I do before deleting duplicates?
- Create a backup of the library outside the scan location.
- Run a non-destructive scan and inspect groups.
- Verify paths, dates, sizes and content previews.
- Record decisions, and delete in small batches only after validation.
Important limitation
How to verify the result
Restore a sample file from backup and reopen retained originals. A scan's estimated savings or the presence of a matching group does not by itself establish which copy should be discarded.
If the procedure does not match your screen, inspect the project's own FAQ and troubleshooting notes and identify the exact release and frontend first.
FAQ
What should I do before deleting duplicates?
Make a backup, choose a reliable master copy, check scan mode, verify selections and test recovery. File deduplication should be reversible wherever possible.
What is the biggest risk for this task?
Do not rely on automatic selection for your only family photos or business documents.
How do I check whether it worked?
Restore a sample file from backup and reopen retained originals.
Related Windows guides
- Recover Files Removed After a Czkawka Scan
- Does Czkawka Delete to the Recycle Bin?
- Measure Actual Disk Space Recovered with Czkawka
- Run a Read-Only Duplicate Scan on Windows
Editorial notes reviewed: November 1, 2026. Version-specific facts are based on the developer's release and FAQ. This guide is educational; it is not a guarantee about a third-party download.
Try Czkawka on Windows
Check the asset name and keep a backup before running a file cleanup operation.
See our download and safety instructions first.