How to clean up WinSxS folder in Windows 10

The WinSxS folder is the Component Store located in your C:\Windows directory where core Windows files reside including the bits needed to turn on and off any Windows features you enable from the Control Panel. Not only are these files critical to the operation of Windows 10 but when updates to Windows are installed, these files get updated. Every time you receive updates for the OS, the WinSxS folder dramatically grows in size. A commonly asked question by many people is "Why is the WinSxS folder so big?" Here is how you can clean up the WinSxS folder and reduce its size in Windows 10.

Cleaning up the Component Store can be done as follows:

1. Open an elevated command instance.
2. Type the following command:

   cleanmgr

3. The Disk Cleanup dialog will appear. Tick the item called "Windows Update Cleanup":

That's it. This will remove files which are not critical to the functioning of the operating system and which are used only as a reserve copy of the upgraded system components. Your WinSxS folder in Windows 10 will be reduced in size. You have to remember however that after performing this cleanup, you will not be able to uninstall any of the updates currently installed.

Support us

Winaero greatly relies on your support. You can help the site keep bringing you interesting and useful content and software by using these options: