can I delete files in Windows/SoftwareDistribution/download

Searched but didn't find what I was looking for. Can I delete the files in this directory? Some are over three months old.

Mitch

 

Hi, Mitch.

Why do you want to delete contents of Windows\SoftwareDistribution\download?

Are you running seriously short of hard drive space in your Windows partition? If not, then I am inclined to suggest leaving that folder as-is.

Anyway, I Googled your thread title. Perhaps some of those links will help answer your question.

• http://www.msfn.org/board/lofiversion/index.php/t40731.html
• http://discussions.virtualdr.com/archive/index.php/t-172176.html
• http://www3.telus.net/dandemar/spack.htm

I do not know how reliable the information in those links is.

If you decide to "delete" the contents of your Windows\SoftwareDistribution\download folder, then I suggest you at least back up that folder by copying it to another partition/folder or to CD (to be on the safe side).


EDIT: If you are having trouble with Windows Update, then perhaps the following link will help instead of deleting the contents of the Windows\SoftwareDistribution\download folder.

• CastleCops Wiki: How To Fix Windows Update

 

I've always deleted it and never had any problems. I have it as part of a batch file for drive cleanup.

However, as has been said, it really doesn't amount to much disk space for most people so if you have any doubts, leave it alone and sleep well.

 

Thanks. its not really cramping my space so will leave it for now. At least I know I can get rid of it if I need to.

Mitch