How to Clear Windows Update Cache

The update cache consists of copies of the update installation files.

The operating system uses them if you’re ever forced to reapply an update; it saves downloading them again. Although it’s a good idea, they take up a lot of space.

Unless you either have a very slow Internet connection or you’re seriously limited with data caps by your ISP, you can safely remove them. Sadly, the process is not particularly straightforward.

The first step is stopping the Windows Update service. Search for Services, right-click on the top result, and open it as an administrator.

Next, scroll down the list of entries until you find Windows Update. Right-click on it and choose Stop.

Now you’ll need to delete the files. Press Windows key + R to open the run box, then type C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution and hit Enter. You can delete everything within the Downloads folder.

Lastly, you’ll need to head back to services and re-enable Windows Update.