Found this folder WUDownloadCache = Delete?

bacca413-9818 0 Reputation points
2026-10-06T11:51:56.2133333+00:00

Hi,

My computer is currently at its Windows 10 state and the system shows that I should update to Windows 11.

I found this WUDownloadCache at /:D, it is quite a huge file folder which might help to clean up some space for the update. My question is: Is it safe to delete it? Or should I clean up the files in /:C main drive?

Any tip or recommendation is welcome! Thankyou.

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Windows update
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  1. AI answer

    2026-10-06T11:52:11.1+00:00

    Use the built-in cleanup options first rather than manually deleting an unknown update cache folder.

    Recommended order:

    1. Open Start > Settings > System > Storage.
    2. Turn on Storage Sense.
    3. Select Cleanup recommendations and remove suggested items such as Temporary files and other unused content.
    4. If more space is needed, run Disk Cleanup:
      • Search for Disk Cleanup
      • Select the drive
      • Choose files to remove
      • For more space, select Clean up system files

    If a Previous Windows installation or Windows.old entry appears, it can be deleted to free space, but that removes the ability to roll back to the previous Windows version. That action cannot be undone.

    To free additional space safely:

    • Move large personal files from Videos, Music, Pictures, or Downloads to an external drive.
    • Empty the Recycle Bin after deleting files.
    • Save new files to another drive with Start > Settings > System > Storage > Advanced storage settings > Where new content is saved.
    • If Windows still needs more room for the upgrade, use an external storage device during the update.

    Windows updates need extra disk space to download the update, apply it, and keep temporary rollback files for about 10 days after installation.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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  2. TaoLi 115K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-10-06T12:27:33.46+00:00

    Hi! You can delete the contents of D:\WUDownloadCache if Windows Update is not downloading, installing, or waiting for an installation or restart. If an update is pending, leave the folder until it finishes.

    Cleaning D: only frees space on D:, so focus on C: if you need room for the Windows 11 upgrade.

    Search for Disk Cleanup >> select C: >> Clean up system files >> select Windows Update Cleanup, if listed >> OK. Review the selected items before confirming.

    Microsoft’s cleanup guide: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/experience/storage-filemanagement/free-up-drive-space-in-windows

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