Start with one small folder that you can restore. Scan without deleting, review the groups, and confirm you understand which copy is retained before any cleanup action.
What to know before you begin
Start with one small folder that you can restore. Scan without deleting, review the groups, and confirm you understand which copy is retained before any cleanup action. 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: How do I run my first duplicate scan safely?
- Make a disposable folder with two copies of one test file.
- Add only this folder to the included directories list.
- Run the duplicate-file scan and compare file paths in the results.
- Select a test duplicate and use the least destructive available action only after review.
Important limitation
How to verify the result
Verify the test original remains available and the file preview still opens. 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
How do I run my first duplicate scan safely?
Start with one small folder that you can restore. Scan without deleting, review the groups, and confirm you understand which copy is retained before any cleanup action.
What is the biggest risk for this task?
Do not begin in system folders, a cloud sync root or your only photo archive.
How do I check whether it worked?
Verify the test original remains available and the file preview still opens.
Related Windows guides
- Czkawka Download for Windows: Which File to Choose?
- Krokiet vs Czkawka GTK: Which Windows App?
- How to Install Czkawka / Krokiet on Windows 11
- Czkawka on Windows 10: Installation and Checks
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.