Delete Software Distribution Folder: Best Way to Remove It

Delete the folder to fix update issues and clear storage

2 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

The Software Distribution folder is responsible for temporarily storing the important update files that Windows needs to perform an update. And we’ll show why you should and how you can delete the Software Distribution folder.

Several users have, on multiple forums, includingMicrosoft, shared issues with the folder and were wondering if deleting it poses any immediate or significant threat. So, let’s find out all about it.

Can I delete the Software Distribution folder?

Yes, you can clear the Software Distribution folder in Windows just like any other folder. Here are a few reasons why you might want to consider deleting it:

Yes, deleting the Software Distribution folder poses no significant harm. It would take a little longer the next time you check for and install Windows Updates.

Also, Windows will automatically recreate the folder and download the relevant files needed to complete the update process.

How can I delete the Software Distribution folder?

In order to delete the Software Distribution folder, you needadministrator rights. Moreover, before you delete the files in the folder, you also have to stop theWindows UpdateandBackground Intelligent Transfer Services. Let’s find out how!

1.PressWindows+Sto openSearch, typeCommand Promptin the text field, and click onRun as administrator.

ClickYesin theUACprompt.
Paste the following command and hitEnterto stop theWindows Updateservice:net stop wuauserv
Next, execute the following command to terminateBITS(Background Intelligent Transfer Service):net stop bits
Once done, pressWindows+Eto openFile Explorer, paste the following in the address bar and hitEnter:C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution
PressCtrl+Ato select all the folder’s contents and then hit theDeletekey. If you can’t delete the Software Distribution folder or theaccess is denied, just restart your PC and try again.
All the files in theSoftware Distributionfolder should be deleted but the folder should still be there. We want to delete its contents, not the folder.
Go back to toCommand Prompt, and execute the following commands to restart theWindows Updateservice andBITS:net start wuauservnet start bits

Once you finish the process, Windows will reconfigure the folder and download the necessary files. Your Windows updates will now work as intended without any issues or errors popping up.

We also have a guide onrenaming the Software Distribution folder. And since it helps identify whether the folder is causing all the trouble, we recommend you check it.

For other questions regarding the process, reach for the comments section below.

Delete Software Distribution Folder: Best Way to Remove It#

Can I delete the Software Distribution folder?#

How can I delete the Software Distribution folder?#

Delete Software Distribution Folder: Best Way to Remove It

Can I delete the Software Distribution folder?

How can I delete the Software Distribution folder?