How to Delete the Windows Temp Folder

Every time that you open an application or use a web browser on a PC computer, the Windows operating system stores temporary files on your computer's hard drive. Programs use these temporary files to help themselves run faster and back up data, but they are not automatically deleted after you quit the application. You can use the Disk Cleanup utility program to delete the Windows temp folder and clear up free space on your hard drive.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Log on to your PC computer with an administrator account. Your PC must be running Windows XP or a later version.

2. Open the "Start" menu, and expand the "All Programs" list.

3. Click the "Accessories" and "System Tools" subfolders, then click "Disk Cleanup."

4. Check the boxes next to "Temporary Files" and "Temporary Internet Files."

5. Click "OK," then confirm your decision to delete the Windows Temp folder.

References

• How to Delete the Contents of the Temporary Internet Files Folder