The WinSxS directory in Windows is used to store system files, updates, and components. Although it seems to grow large, it should not be manually deleted, as it is critical for the operating system’s functionality. However, there are safe methods to reduce the size of this directory without compromising the system.
Here are some approaches to safely clean the WinSxS folder:
1. Cleaning via Disk Cleanup
Windows has a built-in tool that can help remove unnecessary files from the WinSxS directory.
- Go to Search and type Disk Cleanup.
- Open Disk Cleanup and select the system drive (usually C:).
- Click on Clean up system files.
- Look for the Windows Update Cleanup option. If it’s available, select it. This will remove obsolete updates and temporary files that are no longer needed.
2. Using the DISM Command
DISM (Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool) is a Windows administrative tool that can be used to optimize and clean the WinSxS folder.
Run the following command in an administrator Command Prompt:
dism.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /StartComponentCleanup
This command removes outdated versions of Windows components.
If you also want to remove update backups that can no longer be uninstalled, you can add the /ResetBase flag:
dism.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /StartComponentCleanup /ResetBase
Note: This will make installed updates permanent, preventing them from being uninstalled in the future.
3. Removing Service Pack Files
If you’ve installed one or more Service Packs and no longer need to revert to previous versions, you can free up space by removing the related Service Pack files. Use this command:
dism.exe /online /cleanup-image /spsuperseded
This command removes backup files from Service Packs that are no longer necessary.
4. Managing Windows’ Automatic Maintenance
Windows automatically manages system files, and automatic maintenance can delete unnecessary components. Ensure that automatic maintenance is enabled:
- Go to Control Panel > Security and Maintenance > Maintenance.
- Check that maintenance is active and running.
Final Considerations:
The WinSxS folder is important for the stability of Windows, so it should never be manually modified. The methods described above are safe and Microsoft-approved for reducing the space it occupies without risking damage to the system.
