Short answer: Mail archives need application-aware handling because they may contain the only copy of old messages.
By DiskAnalyzer editorial resource · Published 2026-10-05 · Documentation reviewed 2026-10-05
When this guide is useful
An exported archive and a synchronized cache have different purposes. Open the archive in its normal application and confirm retention obligations before moving it to offline storage.
Recommended workflow
- Locate the archive file.
- Identify the mail application and account.
- Check whether messages are stored elsewhere.
- Use the application's archive or maintenance workflow.
Limits and precautions
Do not delete a mail store simply because the mailbox is available online.
Keep a useful record
Record the drive or folder, scan time, application version and the measurement you used. Keep observations separate from proposed changes. If a result leads to a cleanup, record the file owner, backup status and actual free-space change. This makes the result easier to review and helps explain differences in a later scan.
Quick review checklist
| Question | What to record |
|---|---|
| What did you inspect? | The exact volume or folder, not just the PC name. |
| What action is justified? | Use the application's archive or maintenance workflow. |
| What could go wrong? | Do not delete a mail store simply because the mailbox is available online. |
Next steps
If the result is unclear, preserve the current report and narrow the investigation to one folder or application. Make one approved change at a time, then repeat the relevant measurement. Avoid presenting a predicted saving as a measured outcome.
Related guides
- Compare OneDrive Logical Size with Local Disk Usage
- Audit an External Drive with WizTree
- Plan a WizTree Audit of a Network Share
- Plan a Useful WizTree CSV Inventory
Download information · How we verify guidance
Sources and verification
- WizTree developer documentation
- WizTree developer FAQ
- WizTree developer download notes
- Microsoft Windows storage guidance
Prepared from public documentation and practical storage-audit reasoning. No hands-on Windows test or independent binary inspection was performed for this publication. Menu names and package requirements can change; check the developer documentation for your installed version.