Storage - Temporary files = C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download ?

Paul Black · 22 Mar 2021

Hello @rdwray,

rdwray said:

If I delete the SoftwareDistribution folder, can I still uninstall updates?

If you are having a problem with WU's, you will better off performing one of the following . . .

> How to Clear Windows Update History in Windows 10
> Clean Up Component Store (WinSxS folder) in Windows 10
> How to Open and Use Disk Cleanup in Windows 10

There could be a problem if you are using any third-party software to control the way that WU's are delivered.

I just found this for you . . .

> Is it safe to delete Software Distribution folder

I hope this helps.

rdwray · 22 Mar 2021

Thanks Paul Black, but I know about what you listed, but was wondering about the SoftwareDistribution folder.

MeAndMyComputer · 22 Mar 2021

Opening post #1
2. Can I safely delete "C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download" folder?
In Paul Black’s post #11
How to rename or delete Software Distribution folder in Windows 10
Rename or delete Software Distribution folder in Windows 10
Is it safe to delete Software Distribution folder is included.

I don’t think I would consider deleting "C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download" folder?” but from what I saw it's worth investigating.

In post #12, you mention
"Thanks Paul Black, but I know about what you listed, but was wondering about the SoftwareDistribution folder."
But please verify, have you gone through
Rename or delete Software Distribution folder in Windows 10

Also in post #1
$Storage - Temporary files = C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download ?-gvp9000-temporary-files.jpg$

Open it and clean it out. Compare results.

rdwray · 23 Mar 2021

Ok, I know how to rename and delete the SoftwareDistribution folder, but my question is, "If I delete or rename the SoftwareDistribution folder, can I sit uninstall updates that were previously installed", I left out "can I sit uninstall updates that were previously installed" in my first post.

FreeBooter · 23 Mar 2021

rdwray said:

Ok, I know how to rename and delete the SoftwareDistribution folder, but my question is, "If I delete or rename the SoftwareDistribution folder, can I sit uninstall updates that were previously installed", I left out "can I sit uninstall updates that were previously installed" in my first post.

The "SoftwareDistribution" folder is an essential component for Windows Update, which temporarily stores files needed to install new updates. You will have no problem uninstalling updates when you delete SoftwareDistribution folder.

margrave55 · 23 Mar 2021

If you're really keen to free up space ... the faster and easier solution is to purchase a bigger drive. They're cheap. They're easy. And they're so big you won't ever think about freeing up temp space.

rdwray · 23 Mar 2021

FreeBooter said:

The "SoftwareDistribution" folder is an essential component for Windows Update, which temporarily stores files needed to install new updates. You will have no problem uninstalling updates when you delete SoftwareDistribution folder.

Thanks FreeBooter, that is what I needed to know, that folder just keeps growing like restore point does. The problem I have is an SSD that is on 128gb.

FreeBooter · 23 Mar 2021

I have batch script that will delete the "SoftwareDistribution" folder.

Paul Black · 23 Mar 2021

Hello @rdwray,

rdwray said:

My question is, "If I delete or rename the SoftwareDistribution folder, can I sit uninstall updates that were previously installed", I left out "can I still uninstall updates that were previously installed" in my first post.

This will explain what you asked => Cleanup of Software Distribution Folder

I would personally delete the contents of the folder rather than the folder itself. You should not have a problem uninstalling WU's after deleting the folder.

I hope this helps.

rdwray · 23 Mar 2021

FreeBooter said:

I have batch script that will delete the "SoftwareDistribution" folder.

Thanks....