By Lydia | Last Updated
Regularly clearing the update cache can free up disk space, especially for systems that undergo frequent updates. Additionally, clearing the cache sometimes resolves issues with update installation failures or errors effectively. Here's a detailed guide on how to clear the Windows 10/11 update cache:
The Windows update cache refers to files and data temporarily stored by the system during the download and installation of updates.
Every time Windows updates, the system accumulates a large number of temporary files and files needed to uninstall updates. These are typically located in a specific folder on the system drive. If not cleared regularly, they can occupy a significant amount of hard disk space.
Clearing the Windows update cache itself does not affect the security of the system. It simply deletes temporary files and does not impact the core security settings of the system.
Performing a Windows cleanup will not affect personal files, but after deletion, you may not be able to roll back to a previous system version (installed updates cannot be uninstalled).
Step 1: Press "Win + R", type "services.msc", and press Enter.
Step 2: Scroll down to find "Windows Update" in the list of services. Right-click on it and select "Stop."
Step 3: Open File Explorer and navigate to "C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download".
Step 4: Delete all contents inside the Download folder. If any files are in use, restart your computer and try again.
Step 5: Go back to the Services window, right-click on "Windows Update" and select "Start".
Step 1: Press "Win + R" to open the Run dialog box. Type "cleanmgr" and press Enter to launch Disk Cleanup.
Step 2: Select C drive to clean up. Then click on "Clean up system files".
Step 3: Re-select C drive, wait for Disk Cleanup to recalculate.
Step 4: In the Disk Cleanup dialog, check the box next to "Windows Update Cleanup". Click OK to initiate the cleanup process.
Step 1: Press <Win + I> to open Windows settings, then choose System > Storage > Temporary files.
Step 2: Tick "Windows Update Cleanup" and "Delivery Optimization Files", then click on "Remove files" button.
Note:
1. Is it safe to delete the Windows Update cache folder?
Yes, it is safe. Deleting the SoftwareDistribution\Download folder will not harm your PC. Windows will recreate the folder and download necessary updates again when needed.
2. What happens if I delete the update cache?
You'll lose temporary update data, which may fix stuck updates or errors. However, you also lose the ability to roll back certain updates unless you've created a system restore point beforehand.
3. How often should I clear the update cache?
Only when you: Encounter update failures or stuck downloads; Notice excessive disk usage from update logs; Want to free up space after large feature updates
Related Articles:
How to Reset Windows 10 Forgotten Password 
How to Bypass Windows 10 Password Login with/without Password 
Easy Guide to Reset Windows 10 Admin Password Like an Expert 
4 Tips to Change Windows 10 Password without Knowing Current Password 
Can't Sign into Microsoft Account Windows 10 | Account Locked/Blocked 
