Safe Removal of Windows Update Cache

Delete update caches safely so future updates stay healthy.

1. Stop services as admin:

net stop wuauserv
net stop bits

2. Delete contents of Download, keep DataStore; old logs under Logs can go.
3. In DriverStore, only touch temporary/duplicate driver packages; confirm versions with pnputil /enum-drivers first.
4. Restart services:

net start wuauserv
net start bits

5. Open Windows Update to verify; if issues, run sfc /scannow and DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth.
6. If cautious, create a restore point first or only clear Download and leave other folders.

Remember the trio: stop services → clear cache → start services.

Common errors

• Update stuck at 0%: clear cache, restart services—usually fixes it.
• “Access denied”: run as admin or delete in Safe Mode.

Easy mode

Save the commands to a .bat on the desktop—one double-click runs all three steps.

Further reading

• Common C Drive Cleanup Errors and Fixes
• Lightweight Command-Line C Drive Cleanup
• Data Protection Before C Drive Cleanup
• Win10 C Drive Junk Cleanup Tutorial
• Checklist for Low C Drive Space