How do I delete left-over Windows Update folders?

As an IT administrator, it is important to keep your system updated with the latest patches from Microsoft. However, sometimes these updates can leave behind folders that are no longer needed. In this article, we will discuss how to delete these left-over Windows Update folders.

When a system is running Windows Update, the process will create a folder with a specific name. This folder contains all of the files and data associated with the update process. This is a necessary process for Windows to keep track of the files it needs to install. Unfortunately, after the install is complete, the folder is not always removed. This can lead to a large number of left-over folders that are no longer needed and can take up unnecessary space on the drive.

To delete the left-over Windows Update folders, open the Run dialog box by pressing the Windows + R keys and then type %windir% and press enter. This will open the Windows directory. You will then need to navigate to the SoftwareDistribution folder, which is located in the Windows folder. Once you are in the SoftwareDistribution folder, you can delete all of the folders that are named $NTUninstallKBxxxxxx.

The number after the NTUninstallKB will be different for each folder and will correspond to the specific patch or update that was installed. Once you have deleted all of the folders that have this naming convention, you can close the window and the left-over Windows Update folders should be gone.

It is important to note that if you delete a folder that is still needed, you may experience issues with your system. Before deleting any folders, you should make sure that you are certain that the folder is no longer needed. If you are unsure, you should consult with Microsoft support or a qualified IT professional.

In conclusion, deleting left-over Windows Update folders can help to free up space on your drive and keep your system running smoothly. To delete these folders, you will need to open the SoftwareDistribution folder located in the Windows folder and delete any folders that have the naming convention $NTUninstallKBxxxxxx. However, before deleting any folders, you should make sure that they are no longer needed. If you are unsure, consult with Microsoft support or a qualified IT professional.