The one problem that Windows users often face is insufficient storage space.
In such a case, you must clean up the WinSxS folder on your Windows computer.
This article will discuss WinSxS and how to clean up this folder.
What is the WinSxS folder in Windows?
WinSxS (Windows Side by Side) is a folder on your system installation drive.
Its a very important folder that helps you revert to the previous state in case of software failure.
The folder is located in your system installation drive.
However, theres only one copy of a file, and the rest are just hard links.
Is it safe to Delete the WinSxS Folder?
You cant delete the WinSxS, and you shouldnt give a shot to delete it.
Deleting the files from the WinSxS folder might break the operating systems functionality.
In the worst case, your PC might even fail to boot.
How to Clean Up WinSxS Folder on Windows 11?
Since you cant delete the WinSxS folder, you gotta find ways to reduce its size.
Heres what you should probably do.
First of all, punch the Windows 11 Search and punch in inTask Scheduler.
Next, kick off the Task Scheduler app from the list of options.
On the Task Scheduler, navigate to the following path:
Task Scheduler Library\Microsoft\Windows\Servicing\StartComponentCleanup
3.
On the StartComponentCleanup, click theRunbutton in the Selected Item section.
This will trigger the StartComponentCleanup tool and reduce the size of your WinSxS folder.
Here are some of the simple steps shared below.
First, open File Explorer on your Windows 11.
Right-choose your system installation drive and select Properties.
Alternatively, launch the Windows 11 search and bang out in Disk Cleanup.
Next, open theDisk Cleanup utilityfrom the list.
On the Local Disk Properties, smack the Disk Cleanup button.
If you are using the Disk Cleanup utility,snag the driveyou want to clean.
On the Disk Cleanup prompt, click theClean up system filesbutton.
Nowselect all checkboxesand hit theOkbutton.
The Disk Cleanup utility will run and clean all unnecessary system files.
It will effectively scan and remove unnecessary files & folders from your Windows 11 computer.
Heres how you’re free to clean up the WinSxS folder using Storage Sense to reclaim space.
- select Windows 11 Start Button and select parameters.
On prefs, switch to theStoragetab on the left side.
Underneath Storage usage, choose Temporary files.
- unselect the Recycle Bin and Downloads.
verify all other options are selected.
Once done, hit the Remove files button.
This will immediately run Storage Sense on your Windows 11 computer.
This wont clean the WinSxS folder, but it will definitely trim down its size.
Heres what you should probably do.
- tap on the Windows 11 search and pop in in Command Prompt.
Next, right-click theCommand Promptand selectRun as administrator.
On the Command Prompt, execute the command:
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /StartComponentCleanup
3.
This will wipe the specific group of files from the WinSxS folder.
8 Ways to Fix it
How To Fix Mobile Hotspot Connected but No Internet on Android
