How to Clear Windows Update Cache?

Summary: Are Windows updates causing issues on your system? Is your Windows storage filling up? Is your system running slower? Clearing the Windows Update cache can help resolve all of these common issues. This blog discusses the what, why and how of Windows Update cache. We’ll also answer how to clear Windows update cache. Plus, we talk about restoring accidentally deleted files while clearing the cache.

Table of Content:

• How to Clear Windows Update Cache?
• What is Windows Update Cache?
• Why Clear Windows Update Cache?
• How to Clear Windows Update Cache – 5 Ways
• How to Restore Accidentally Deleted Files and Folders?

How to Clear Windows Update Cache?

Windows Update Cache refers to temporary files stored by your system during updates. If not removed, these files can accumulate over time, leading to slow updates or storage problems.

The good part, however, is that clearing the Windows Update cache is simple. By following the steps mentioned in this blog, you can quickly clear the cache.

But what exactly is Windows Update Cache?
Why and how to clear the Windows Update Cache?

Well, in this blog, we will explain everything you need to know about Windows Update cache.

What is Windows Update Cache?

Before we get to Windows Update Cache, let’s understand what cache means. A cache is a temporary storage area where frequently accessed data is stored. It helps in quicker access to data and makes processes smoother and faster.

Similarly, Windows Update Cache temporarily stores files related to system updates. This cache includes essential data, such as:

• Patches
• Security updates
• System improvements

These files are downloaded and stored locally by Windows when performing updates. In general, Windows Update Cache is useful because:

• It ensures updates can be applied efficiently
• It allows reinstalling updates without having to re-download files, if needed
• It speeds up the update process
• It minimizes potential network strain.

However, over time, the cache files can grow large. That’s when they start to consume disk space, leading to slow updates or corrupted files.

Also Read: Best Ways to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80080005

Why Clear Windows Update Cache?

As mentioned previously, Windows Update cache ensures smoother updates. But there are some scenarios where it’s beneficial to clear it. Here are some of the reasons why you should clear the Windows Update cache:

1. Free Up Disk Space

Over time, the cache grows as more updates are installed. If it consumes too much valuable storage, especially on systems with limited space, it is best to clear it.

Also Read: How to Free Up Space on C Drive in Windows 10/11?

2. Fix Corrupted Files

If any update fails or gets interrupted, the cache might become corrupted. Keeping these corrupted files can lead to errors during future updates.

3. Improve Update Speed

A cluttered cache slows down the update process. This is because the system may struggle to find and manage necessary files.

4. Resolve Update Errors

Clearing the cache can often fix errors, such as failed updates or stuck updates. It can also fix error codes like Windows Update Error 0x80073712

5. System Cleanup

Periodically clearing the cache helps maintain system efficiency. It ensures smooth operation without unnecessary files slowing it down.

Also Read: How to Fix Install Error 0x80070103 in Windows 10/11?

How to Clear Windows Update Cache – 5 Ways

There are several ways to clear the cache on Windows 10. You can select either method based on your comfort level with system processes.

The key methods to clear Windows Update Cache are:

Method 1: Using Windows Services

This method involves stopping the Windows Update service and manually deleting the cache. Here’s what you need to do:

1: Press Windows + R.

2: Type services.msc to open the Services window.

3: Scroll down to the ‘Windows Update’.

4: Right-click and select Stop to stop the Windows Update service.

5: Open File Explorer and go to C: drive → Windows → SoftwareDistribution → Download

6: Delete all files in the folder.

7: Go back to the Services window.

8: Right-click and select Start to restart the Windows Update service.

Important: Don’t forget to restart the Windows Update service after you clear the cache on Windows 10. This is important to ensure smooth future updates.

Also Read: ASUS Laptop Won’t Turn On: Solved

Method 2: Using Disk Cleanup

Windows Disk Cleanup also offers a simpler way to delete the Windows update cache.

Here’s what you need to do:

1: Press Windows + S.

2: Type Disk Cleanup to open the tool.

3: Select the drive where Windows is installed (it is usually the C: drive). Click OK.

4: Scroll down and check the Windows Update Cleanup option.

5: Click OK and confirm to delete the files.

Pro Tip: Running Disk Cleanup regularly helps maintain overall system performance.

Also Read: How to Fix Windows Update Error Code 0x80070057?

Method 3: Using Command Prompt

If you are a more tech-savvy user, you can use the Command Prompt to quickly clear the cache. For that, you need to:

1: Press Windows + S.

2: Type cmd –> right-click –> choose Run as administrator (You might get a pop-up confirming the selection. Select Yes to continue).

3: Type “net stop wuauserv” and press Enter.

4: After the process is complete, type “net stop bits” and press Enter.

5: After the process is complete, type “del /f /s /q %windir%\SoftwareDistribution\Download” and press Enter.

6: Then type “net start wuauserv” and press Enter.

7: Then type “net start bits” and press Enter.

8: Close the Command Prompt.

Also Read: The Computer Won’t Wake Up From Sleep on Windows 11: How to Fix the Issue?

Method 4: Using Windows Update Troubleshooter

The built-in Windows troubleshooter can automatically resolve several update-related issues. This also includes clearing the Windows Update Cache. Here’s how you can use the troubleshooter:

1: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.

2: Select Windows Update under the “Get up and running” section.

3: Click Run the troubleshooter and follow the on-screen instructions.

The troubleshooter is the best solution for a quick fix if you’re not comfortable with manual methods.

Also Read: How to Fix Blank White Screen of Death on Windows 11/10?

Method 5: Manually Deleting Cache Files

For users who prefer direct file management, manually deleting files can also work.

Here’s how you can find the Windows Update Cache and clear it:

1: Open File Explorer.

2: Go to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download.

3: Select all files in the folder and press Delete.

4: Restart your computer.

Pro Tip: Ensure no Windows updates are running before manually deleting cache files.

Also Read: Windows 11 PC Keeps Crashing

How to Restore Accidentally Deleted Files and Folders?

Sometimes, while clearing the Windows Update cache, important files also get deleted. This can lead to more system issues instead of fixing them.

In such cases, you need to use reliable tools to restore accidentally deleted files. Stellar Windows Data Recovery (formerly Stellar Phoenix Windows data recovery) is one such tool.

With the Stellar Data Recovery for Windows, you can:

1. Recover files from accidental deletion in 3 simple steps
2. Recover over 200 file types, ensuring you get back everything you need
3. Preview your data for free, making sure you know what to recover
4. Recover files from formatted drives or corrupt partitions effortlessly.
5. Recover files from both NTFS and FAT32 file systems

Thus, using Stellar Data Recovery for Windows, you can easily recover files that may have been accidentally deleted while clearing the Windows update cache.

Please remember that you can restore accidentally deleted data or data lost due to logical errors using data recovery software. However, if your data loss is linked to a physical issue with your hard drive or storage media, expert lab-based recovery services are needed.

For such cases, we highly recommend reaching out to Stellar Data Recovery Services. With over 30 years of experience, Stellar has successfully recovered data even from the most severe cases of physical damage. You can get a free phone consultation to understand the best steps for your situation.

Now you are aware of the multiple methods to clear the Windows Update cache. Following these simple methods will ensure your system runs smoothly and efficiently.

Next, let us cover some of the most commonly asked questions about the Windows Update Cache.

FAQs

1. Is it safe to delete the Windows Update cache?

Yes, it is completely safe to delete the Windows Update cache. These files are temporary and primarily used for storing updates. Once they’ve been applied, they are no longer necessary. Thus, the Windows Update cache can be removed without impacting your system’s functionality.

2. How to free up space for Windows Update?

To free up space for Windows updates, you can clear the Windows Update cache. Additionally, you can:

• Delete temporary files
• Uninstall unused programs
• Clear out old system files using the Disk Cleanup tool

These methods can free up significant storage space for downloading Windows Updates.

3. Does clearing Windows Update cache cause data loss?

No, clearing the Windows Update cache does not cause any data loss related to personal files. It only deletes temporary update files. However, if done improperly, system files might get deleted. In such cases, you can use Stellar Data Recovery for Windows. The helpful tool helps you restore accidentally deleted important files.

4. What happens if I do not clear Windows Update Cache?

If you don’t clear the Windows Update cache, it may continue to grow. This will eventually lead to the cache taking up a lot of disk space. This can lead to:

• Slow system performance
• Failed updates
• System errors

Regular clearing the Windows Update cache, thus helps maintain a healthy system.

5. Can Stellar recover deleted Windows Update Cache files if needed?

Yes, Stellar Windows Data Recovery can recover accidentally deleted Windows Update cache files. Other than that, Stellar Data Recovery for Windows can also recover:

• Data from NTFS, FAT, exFAT, and ReFS file systems
• 300 file types from any Windows storage device
• Data from formatted, corrupted, or encrypted devices