Regarding Old Windows File (Windows.old)

[rahul_mehta-79]

I would like to raise a serious query regarding a huge chunck of data that my Local Disk C: occupies for the windows.old folder..

I asked to the local hp service center regarding the same. They advised not to delete any of the files from it. Any other person's C Drive might not be occupying such a huge space as mine.. I am attaching the screenshots of the same..

Kindly guide through the steps to free around 45 Gigs of my C Drive..

[Mans]

@rahul_mehta-79 

Hello,

If you do not want to revert to an earlier version of Windows 10, you can delete the File Folder with the name Windows.old.
To do this, proceed as follows:

1. On the keyboard, press the Windows and X keys simultaneously.
2. Click on Windows PowerShell (Admin), and then Yes.
3. Type cleanmgr, then press Enter key, and then select the disk C:\, and then click OK, and then click Delete files.
4. Check all the boxes, and click OK.
5. When you have a question, click Yes.
6. Wait for the cleaning time, then restart the computer.

In case of need, don't hesitate to contact us.

Best regards,

[Prométhée]

Hello
if the pc is working properly, that personal data is saved, or can be saved, you can very well delete this folder
It is simply a small backup following a windows update!
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/4028075/windows-delete-your-previous-version-of-windows
That said, given the space occupied on Windows C, it may not be enough.
For other disks / partitions, can you specify, if it is internal / external storage, original or not?
I ask because they are not named original, and almost full too
We need to do a little cleaning
NB, you can check the other boxes ( translate maybe bad , ex: remove all , thumbnails , defender antivirus, temporary internet etc )

[WAWood · Accepted solution]

@rahul_mehta-79 

I don't know why the Service Center told you that -- as those files are the result of a Windows Upgrade from an older version (NOT simply Windows Updates -- as those are stored elsewhere).

You already answered the question yourself -- in the Disk Cleanup window you posted, it is the Previous Windows Installation line.  Just click the OK box and that will be cleaned out.  Be patient, as it could take some time.

Also, there is a freeware app known as Wise Disk Cleaner. I use it every day to get rid of junk files: https://www.wisecleaner.com/wise-disk-cleaner.html