Confused about Temporary Internet Files Folder

I need some advice regarding the "Windows/Temporary internet files" Folder and its Subfolder "Content.IE5 ". The Windows/Temporary internet files folder contains 15,982 files and the Subfolder Content.IE5 contains 34 subfolders containing a total of 55,986 files. How are these files generated and can I get rid of them with out causing a problem? Sure would like to know more about these files.

R. Gale Harter

 

The \TIF folder is used by IE to cache web content to make browsing faster.
BUT, if you really have 34 subfolders, you cache size is HUGE. Like GBS!!!

From IE, go to Tools > Internet Options > Settings Button and change the Amount of disk space to use to something in the 15-20MB range, which will be more than ample.

OK your way out.

Now, Restart to DOS (WinME - Use a Boot Disk)

and enter the commands

Smrtdrv
Deltree C:\Windows\Locals~1\Tempor~1
Deltree C:\Windows\Tempor~1

ENTER after each and after the last 2, respond with Y, after confirming the folder name is correct.

This will delete all files in the \TIF folder which will be rebuilt when you restart Windows. You should then see 4 Subfolders instead of the 34.

*** If you have been running IE for quite a while, you should do the next 2 commands also, to purge a DAT file that grows over time. They too will be rebuilt when Windows restarts.

Del C:\Windows\History\Index.dat
Del C:\Windows\Cookies\Index.dat