I don't understand this, I go to "My Computer" and I highlight my C Drive. It says Free Space is 12.1 GB, while the total size is 18.5 GB. So obviously, that means I've used 6.4 GB of space. Now I open up my C drive and highlight all of my directories, such as Windows, Documents and Settings, Program Files, and all the other stuff. It only totals to 4.5 GB. What's up with that? I just recently reformatted as well, so I don't see why the space doesn't add up.
You also have to account for all the hidden files. Do you have those included? There is always more being used than you think.
If you are using windows vista, and have system restore engaged, thats probably what is taking up the extra space. By default vista reserves a minimun of 15 percent of your hard drive for restore purpuse. http://vistasupport.mvps.org/decrease_storage_space-allocated_to_system_restore.htm
I'm going to bet good money that 4ndy doesn't have Windows Vista on a system with only a 18.5GB hard drive. But, the previous two replies are still correct. Hidden files might not be included in your total, and restore (even on XP if that's what you have) is assigned some of the drive space if you haven't disabled it. Also, don't forget the ol' Windows swap file, which can be quite a large amount especially on a system that I bet doesn't have oodles of RAM memory.
