Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about PurgeByte services, pricing, and policies.
Core Services - Detailed Expectations
Honest answers about what PurgeByte can (and can't) do to help you.
📁 File Management & Storage
While we use advanced scanning tools, some duplicates cannot be safely removed without your approval. For example:
- Same photo, different formats: A photo saved as both JPG and PNG might serve different purposes (web vs. print)
- Edited versions: Photos that look similar but have different edits (cropped, filtered, color-corrected)
- Shared albums: Duplicates in cloud-synced folders (Google Photos, iCloud) might re-sync if deleted locally
- System files: Some "duplicates" are actually system thumbnails or cache files required by your OS
Our approach: We show you a preview of all detected duplicates and let you decide which to keep. We never auto-delete without confirmation.
We can attempt file recovery, but success is not guaranteed and depends on several factors:
- Time since deletion: Files deleted recently have higher recovery chances
- Storage type: SSDs (Solid State Drives) are harder to recover from than traditional HDDs
- Overwritten data: If new files have been saved to the same location, recovery becomes impossible
- File system damage: Corrupted drives may require professional data recovery services
What we do: We'll run recovery software and scan for recoverable files at no extra charge. If recovery fails, we'll explain why and recommend professional services if needed.
Important: Always maintain regular backups—don't rely on recovery as a backup strategy!
We guide and configure, but you remain in control:
- Recommend reliable cloud services based on your needs
- Install and configure sync software
- Set up folder structures and sync preferences
- Test that backups are working correctly
- Subscription costs (if any)
- Account management and billing
- Long-term maintenance and file organization
Your choice: You decide which cloud provider to use (Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, iCloud, etc.), create your own account, and control what gets synced.
⚡ Device Performance & Optimization
We cannot fix hardware-related battery drain, but we can optimize software to extend battery life:
- Identify and close battery-draining background apps
- Disable unnecessary location services and notifications
- Optimize screen brightness and timeout settings
- Remove power-hungry bloatware
- Update outdated software that causes drain
- Old/degraded batteries (requires physical replacement)
- Hardware defects or manufacturing issues
- Battery drain from heavy usage (gaming, video streaming)
Realistic expectations: Software optimization can improve battery life by 15-30%, but if your battery is 2+ years old, consider replacement.
We optimize for maximum improvement, but results vary based on:
- Device age: A 5-year-old laptop won't perform like a new one
- Hardware limits: RAM, storage type (HDD vs. SSD), and processor speed set physical limits
- Usage habits: Installing many apps or storing thousands of files will slow devices over time
Typical improvements we achieve:
- ⚡ Boot time: 40-70% faster startup
- ⚡ App loading: 30-50% quicker response
- ⚡ Storage space: 5-20 GB freed on average
Honest advice: If your device is very old (7+ years) or has hardware issues, optimization helps but replacement might be more cost-effective long-term.
💻 Software & Technical Support
Yes, we provide guidance and setup for:
- Clean installation of Windows/macOS (if you have a valid license)
- Driver updates and system patches
- OS configuration for optimal performance
- Troubleshooting boot issues or update errors
- Recommend legitimate, safe free/open-source alternatives (LibreOffice, GIMP, VLC, etc.)
- Install and configure software properly
- Remove unwanted bloatware and trial software
- Teach you how to identify legitimate vs. pirated software
What we don't do:
- ❌ Provide pirated/cracked software (illegal)
- ❌ Pay for software licenses on your behalf
- ❌ Ongoing software maintenance (unless you book recurring service)
Perfect for: Users who don't know which software is safe, how to install it correctly, or need help transitioning from paid to free alternatives.
Your privacy is our top priority. Here's how we protect your data:
- Permission-based access: You grant remote access via secure tools (AnyDesk/TeamViewer). You can disconnect anytime.
- No data retention: We don't store, copy, or access your personal files beyond what's needed for the service.
- Session transparency: You see everything we do on your screen in real-time.
- Secure tools only: We use encrypted, reputable remote access software—no sketchy downloads.
- Post-session cleanup: We remove any temporary tools or files created during optimization.
Tip: Close sensitive documents or browser tabs before the session if you prefer extra privacy.
Don't worry—disconnections happen! Here's our process:
- Auto-reconnect: Most remote tools attempt to reconnect automatically within 1-2 minutes.
- We notify you: If reconnection fails, we'll message you via WhatsApp/email to resume.
- No extra charge: We pick up where we left off—no additional fees for reconnection time.
- Session safety: Any changes made before disconnect are saved; we won't proceed with risky steps until reconnected.
Pro tip: Use a stable Wi-Fi connection or Ethernet cable for the smoothest experience.
📋 Service Expectations
Duration varies by service type and device condition:
| Service | Typical Time | Factors That Extend Time |
|---|---|---|
| Device Optimization | 1-2 hours | Large storage (500GB+), many installed programs, severe malware |
| File Organization | 2-3 hours | Thousands of scattered files, no existing structure, multiple user accounts |
| Duplicate Removal | 1-2 hours | 10,000+ photos/files, slow storage drive |
| Smartphone Optimization | 45-90 mins | Heavy app usage, full storage, multiple accounts |
Note: Complex cases may require a follow-up session (discounted rate).
To ensure smooth service, please have ready:
- Device type (laptop, desktop, phone, tablet)
- Operating system and version (e.g., "Windows 11 Home")
- Main issue you're experiencing
- Approximate storage capacity and current usage
- When the problem started
- Any error messages you've seen
- Recent changes (new software, updates, hardware)
- Your backup status (do you have recent backups?)
This helps us: Prepare the right tools, provide accurate time estimates, and avoid delays during your appointment.
Payment:
- We accept UPI, bank transfer, or other methods agreed upon before service
- Payment is due before the remote session begins
- You'll receive a digital receipt via email/WhatsApp after payment
Refunds:
- Before session starts: Full refund if cancelled >24 hours in advance
- During session: If we cannot resolve the agreed-upon issue after reasonable effort, we offer a partial refund or free follow-up
- After session: No refunds for completed work, but we provide 7 days of free post-service support for minor adjustments
Transparency first: We'll clearly define the scope and expected outcome before you pay—no surprises.