Windows 7: Can I delete c:\windows.old after install of Win7

jayrwv · 03 Sep 2009

I have installed the retail version of Windows 7 (Pro) and it works great. But I see a file on my C: drive for c:\windows.old/windows.

Can I delete that file? It is 32 GB and I see no need for it. During installation of Win 7 there was a notation that it was saving those old files but that I would not be able to use them. So I am curious as to why I would want to keep them.

Sassa · 03 Sep 2009

You need to take ownership of that folder.
Here is how: Take Ownership Shortcut

wallyinnc · 03 Sep 2009

jayrwv, after you take ownership I would recommend you take a look and see what is in there. It should have stored your files from your previous OS, as well as your personal files. Where did you see you would not be able to use them?

jayrwv · 03 Sep 2009

Thank you so much of such a fast and good reply. I have done that operation with no problems. I still wonder why I can't just delete that folder/files? Does "taking ownership" allow me to use the files? I am not familiar with this operation.

jayrwv · 03 Sep 2009

wallinnc. I saw a message as I was installing Win 7 that said something to the effect that it was saving those files but that I could not use them. I don't recall the exact message.

wallyinnc · 03 Sep 2009

Quote: Originally Posted by jayrwv

Thank you so much of such a fast and good reply. I have done that operation with no problems. I still wonder why I can't just delete that folder/files? Does "taking ownership" allow me to use the files? I am not familiar with this operation.

You should be able to access that folder normally like any other now.

Barman58 · 03 Sep 2009

If you think of the folder as a backup or the recycle bin - check through the contents and if you are sure that you do not need anything (pay particular attention to personal information and/or program settings files) you can delete the folder and it will have no effect on the running of your new OS

jayrwv · 03 Sep 2009

Thank you Wallyinnc and Barman58. Actually it could prove helpful. Thanks for your help.

Brink · 03 Sep 2009

Quote: Originally Posted by jayrwv

I have installed the retail version of Windows 7 (Pro) and it works great. But I see a file on my C: drive for c:\windows.old/windows.

Can I delete that file? It is 32 GB and I see no need for it. During installation of Win 7 there was a notation that it was saving those old files but that I would not be able to use them. So I am curious as to why I would want to keep them.

Hello Jay, and welcome to Seven Forums.

In addition to the above, you can also use the normal method of deleting the Windows.old folder in Disk Cleanup.

Windows.old Folder - Delete

Hope this helps,
Shawn

Windows 7: Can I delete c:\windows.old after install of Win7

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