Deleting Windows.old folder and files

[Billdingas]

Microsoft just updated my Windows. In doing so, it left behind a folder "Windows.old". It is a large file and I need that space. In trying to delete it, it cannot be done in the usual way from the Setting Page. So, I tried to just Delete the folder. I keep getting an error saying I need permissions from: System, TrustedInstaller and others. It seems to be a backup temp file. How do I get rid of it?

[Paul_Tikkanen · Accepted solution]

Hi:

The only way I know of how to delete the Windows.old folder is like this...

Run the disk cleanup utility found in the programs menu>Windows Administrative Tools section.

When the program arrives at the disk cleanup window, click on the Cleanup system files button on the lower left side of the window.

The program will run again and this time when the window reappears, you will be able to check the boxes including the box to delete the Windows.old folder.

[Billdingas]

Thanks as this solved the problem. I did a right click on the drive to bring up the Properties tab. Follow the steps and you will see the disc clean up process.

[Paul_Tikkanen]

You're very welcome.

Yes, you can access the disk cleanup utility that way as well.