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


  1. Posts : 13
    Windows 7 Professional 32 bit Build 7600
       #1

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


    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.
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 823
    OS
       #2

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


  3. Posts : 1,607
    Windows 7 x64 finally!
       #3

    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?
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 13
    Windows 7 Professional 32 bit Build 7600
    Thread Starter
       #4

    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.
      My Computer


  5. Posts : 13
    Windows 7 Professional 32 bit Build 7600
    Thread Starter
       #5

    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.
      My Computer


  6. Posts : 1,607
    Windows 7 x64 finally!
       #6

    jayrwv said:
    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.
      My Computer


  7. Posts : 31,242
    Windows 11 Pro x64 [Latest Release and Release Preview]
       #7

    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
      My Computers


  8. Posts : 13
    Windows 7 Professional 32 bit Build 7600
    Thread Starter
       #8

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


  9. Posts : 71,977
    64-bit Windows 11 Pro for Workstations
       #9

    jayrwv said:
    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
      My Computer


 

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