There are four main locations for Windows to save temporary installation files, namely the user-specific Temp folder, the SoftwareDistribution folder of Windows Update, the system installer cache folder, and the temporary files generated by SFC or DISM tools. 1. The user Temp folder (C:\Users\username\AppData\Local\Temp) is used to store temporary data of applications and installers. It can safely delete old files but avoid deleting the files in use; 2. The Windows Update temporary folder (C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download) contains the update package cache. Before deleting, you need to stop the Windows Update service and restore it after restarting. You can also use the disk cleaning tool; 3. The installer cache (C:\Windows\Installer) contains important installation files. It is recommended to operate with caution to avoid manual deletion to avoid affecting program repair or uninstallation; 4. SFC or DISM tool temporary files (C:\Windows\Logs\CBS) contain system repair logs and temporary files, and old logs can be safely deleted. Regular cleaning of these files helps free up disk space and keep the system running smoothly.

Windows saves temporary installation files in several locations depending on the type of installation or update being performed. These files are typically used during software installations, Windows updates, or system operations and are often left behind unless cleaned up properly.

1. System Temp Folder (User-Specific Temporary Files)

One of the most common places where Windows stores temporary installation files is in the user-specific Temp folder. This folder is used by applications and installers to store temporary data while a program or update is being installed.

• Path: C:\Users\username\AppData\Local\Temp
• Notes: Replace "username" with your actual Windows username. This folder can accumulate a lot of leftover files from failed or incomplete installations.

What to do :

• You can safely delete files in this folder if no major installation or update is currently running.
• Use Disk Cleanup or manually browser the folder to remove old files.
• Be careful not to delete files that are currently in use (you might get access denied errors).

2. Windows Update Temporary Files (SoftwareDistribution Folder)

When Windows updates are downloaded and installed, they're stored temporarily in a specific folder used by the Windows Update service.

• Path: C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download
• Notes: This folder contains cached update packages. Clearing it will free up space but may cause Windows Update to re-download some files later.

What to do :

• Stop the Windows Update service before deleting files.
• Delete everything inside the Download folder.
• Restart the Windows Update service afterward.

You can also use the built-in Disk Cleanup tool with the “Windows Update Cleanup” option selected.

3. Installer Cache (Program-Specific or MSI Installers)

Some software installers, especially those based on Microsoft Installer (MSI), leave behind temporary files in the system's installer cache.

• Path: C:\Windows\Installer
• Notes: This folder contains important cached installer files used for repair or uninstall purposes. Deleting files here could break installed programs.

What to do :

• Avoid manually deleting files in this folder unless you're absolutely sure what you're doing.
• Use tools like CCleaner or Disk Cleanup with caution here.
• If you're uninstalling software, some cleanup tools may offer safe removal options.

4. Temporary Files from SFC or DISM Tools

If you've used system file checkers like sfc /scannow or DISM commands, temporary files may be generated as part of the process.

• Path: C:\Windows\Logs\CBS
• Notes: This folder contains logs and sometimes temporary files related to system file repairs.

What to do :

• Review the logs if you're troubleshooting issues.
• Old log files can be deleted safely, but avoid removing anything if a system scan or repair is ongoing.

In general, these temporary installation files can take up significant disk space over time. Cleaning them periodically helps keep your system running smoothly without risking performance or stability.

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