Different permissions
User-level scans may not see all data. A partial scan cannot establish a complete machine inventory.
Where the space goes
Remote identity
A local-looking path on an SSH host is still remote data belonging to that account.
Evidence and recovery
A collector is a pending selection, not a durable audit log or a backup.
A practical cleanup workflow
Choose a scoped tool
Use the Mac GUI for interactive support, SSH for supported remote hosts, or the standalone CLI for terminal and scripted reports.
Record context
Keep host, scan root, date, permissions, size mode, and any incomplete-result indicators with your report.
Agree on ownership
Confirm the affected user and application before removal. Do not infer a shared folder is disposable from size or age.
Review outcomes
Choose the correct machine and action, retain outcome records, and check actual free capacity. Remote Trash support and provider deletion behavior vary.
Tools to compare
NullDisk offers native Mac maps, SSH/cloud sources, and development cleanup, plus a separate CLI. Match each tool’s platform and features to the job.
- OmniDiskSweeper — Mac users who prefer a free size-sorted browser to a chart. Requirements: macOS
- SquirrelDisk — People wanting a free open-source GUI across desktop systems and remote storage. Requirements: macOS, Windows, Linux
- Baobab (Disk Usage Analyzer) — Linux desktop users who prefer a GNOME application with graphical disk analysis. Requirements: Linux (GNOME)
NullDisk features → · CLI and terminal workflows →
Common questions
Can NullDisk scan Linux storage?
Yes through the separate Linux CLI or the Mac app’s SSH workflow. That does not mean a Linux edition of the Mac GUI is available.
Do workplace users need paid seats?
All direct Mac features are free for workplace use with reminders. Organizations can buy reminder-free team seats at $9.99 each once; see the current license terms.