By Michael | Last Updated
Over time, your Windows 10 system accumulates temporary files that can consume valuable disk space and potentially slow down performance. These files are typically created by the operating system and various applications to store intermediate data. While Windows often removes these files automatically, some may linger due to unexpected shutdowns or software crashes.
In this guide, we'll explore four effective methods to manually delete temporary files in Windows 10, helping you free up space and maintain optimal system performance.
Temporary files (often called “temp files”) are files created by the Windows operating system and installed software to hold short-term data. These may include:
While these files help programs run efficiently, they often remain on your system long after they’re needed, consuming disk space and slowing down your computer. Regular cleanup is recommended to keep your system optimized.
Step 1: Open Settings and access System.
Step 2: Choose Storage on the left side.
Step 3: Click Temporary files and then the temporary files will be scanned for details.
Step 4: Locate to the Temporary files option and check it.
Step 5: Scroll the page to the top and click Remove files to delete temporary files in Windows 10.
Step 1: Search Disk Cleanup in the taskbar and open it.
Step 2: Select the system drive to clean up. Then hit OK.
Step 3: Under Files to delete, select Temporary files to remove and click OK to run the operation.
It's an available way to delete temporary files in Windows 10 by using CMD and here is how.
Step 1: Type cmd in the taskbar and run it as an admin.
Step 2: Enter del /q/f/s %TEMP%\* in the cmd and press Enter to run this command.
To delete temporary files conveniently, you can also apply the third-party tool and iSunshare System Genius is the worth-trying one. iSunshare System Genius is a reliable utility that helps you optimize your Windows OS by cleaning up registry files as well as junk files like temporary files and speeding up Windows boot time. With the help of it, you can not only know what kind of temporary files exist on your system but also delete all temporary files within a few clicks. To try such a smart tool, you can follow the easy steps below.
Step 1: Download and install iSunshare System Genius on your Windows PC.
Step 2: Launch the tool and select Junk File in the left pane. Then click Scan to find out all junk files including temporary files.
Step 3: After the scanning process completed, the junk files will be shown clearly by dividing it into different types of files. You can uncheck the box near the Junk file scan result firstly and then only check Temporary Files. After that, hit Clean to begin deleting temporary files.
Tips: To see more details about temporary files, you can double-click its icon/size(257.67MB here).
Step 4: When the temporary files are erased successfully, you can see the following screen.
You can turn on Storage Sense, which can help to automatically delete temporary files in Windows 10.
Step 1: Go to Settings > System > Storage.
Step 2: Turn on Storage Sense.
Step 3: Click Configure Storage Sense or run it now to set how often it runs and what files to delete.
Q1: Are temporary files safe to delete?
Yes. Most temporary files are safe to delete. Windows and apps no longer need them once a task is complete. However, avoid deleting system or registry files manually.
Q2: How often should I delete temp files?
For regular use, once a week or once a month is a good practice. If you're low on storage or notice system lag, clear them sooner.
Q3: Will deleting temp files affect my programs?
No. Deleting temp files will not harm your programs. If a file is still in use, Windows will prevent its deletion.
Cleaning temporary files in Windows 10 is a simple but powerful way to reclaim disk space, speed up your system, and keep your computer running efficiently. Whether you prefer using Settings, Command Prompt, or a third-party tool, keeping your system clean should be a regular part of your maintenance routine.
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