Where Does Windows 10 Save Its Windows Updates After They Are Downloaded?

Windows 10 efficiently manages its software updates, ensuring that critical security and compatibility improvements are installed promptly. After a Windows update is downloaded, it is stored in a specific location within the system drive. Understanding this process can be helpful for users who need to manage their updates or troubleshoot issues.

Primary Location for Downloaded Updates:

Primary Storage Location

The primary folder where Windows 10 stores downloaded updates is C:WindowsSoftwareDistributionDownload. Initially, this folder will contain the latest updates that Windows has downloaded but not yet installed. The organization of these files is crucial for efficient maintenance and quick installations.

Hidden Files and Attributes:

Hidden and System Files

After the updates are in the download folder, their file attributes are usually set to hidden and system. This means that users typically won't see these files even if they are set to show hidden files in their file explorer settings. This setting protects the integrity of the system update process, ensuring that only authorized files are used for installations. To access these files, users may need to modify their file explorer settings to show hidden and protected system files.

Temporary Storage and Maintenance:

Temporary and Maintenance

Once the updates are installed, the files in the C:WindowsSoftwareDistributionDownload folder typically remain for a short period. After the installation, the system might keep these files temporarily, and during maintenance tasks, they are often deleted to free up space. This process helps in maintaining the system's efficiency and ensures that unnecessary files do not clutter the disk.

Clearing Out Downloaded Updates:

Manual Management

If you need to clear these files manually, you can follow these steps:

Stop the Windows Update service. Delete the contents of the C:WindowsSoftwareDistributionDownload folder. Restart the Windows Update service.

These steps can be useful for freeing up disk space or resolving certain issues related to update downloads. However, it's recommended to follow these steps with caution, as improperly managing these files can sometimes lead to updates not being fully installed.

Additional Resources:

Further Reading

For more detailed information, you can refer to additional resources such as the official Microsoft support articles about where Windows updates are stored on a computer.

Understanding the location and management of Windows 10 updates can enhance your experience and provide a better understanding of your system's behavior. Whether you need to clear out files or just want to know where your updates are stored, this information is essential.