How to Free Up Space by Moving SoftwareDistribution Folder
Moving the SoftwareDistribution folder frees up disk space on your Windows PC by relocating where Windows stores update files.
This folder, normally found at 📁C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution, holds all the downloaded updates for your Windows operating system. It can become quite large, sometimes taking up many gigabytes, which is a problem if your main C: drive is small.
By moving this folder to another drive, like your D: or E: drive, you instantly get that space back on your C: drive. This is a lifesaver when your drive is almost full and helps ensure you can install new Windows updates without trouble.
After you move it, Windows will create a new SoftwareDistribution folder in the new spot for future downloads. Your computer keeps updating normally, and you’ll stop seeing those low disk space warnings.
Move the SoftwareDistribution folder by stopping Windows Update services, renaming the old folder to SoftwareDistribution.old, creating a new folder on a secondary drive (e.g., 📁E:\NewSoftwareDistribution), and then using `mklink /j 📁C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution E:\NewSoftwareDistribution` in an administrator Command Prompt. Finally, copy files to the new location and restart services.
When to use this method
Consider moving the SoftwareDistribution folder if your main C: drive is consistently full, especially if it’s a small SSD.
Risks and Considerations
Moving the SoftwareDistribution folder using a symbolic link carries risks. For example, Windows Update might stop if your new drive becomes disconnected.
Step 1Create a New Folder
To free up disk space, create a new folder on a drive with ample room. For instance, use the 📁E:\ drive and name the new folder NewSoftwareDistribution. This prepares the drive for moving the SoftwareDistribution folder.
The `mklink /j` command creates a symbolic link—a special type of shortcut that tells Windows the new location of your SoftwareDistribution folder. This process ensures that Windows Update functions correctly, even after you move the SoftwareDistribution folder to a new spot, such as `📁E:\NewSoftwareDistribution`. Use the command `mklink /j 📁C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution E:\NewSoftwareDistribution` to create this link.
Step 2Stop the Windows Update Services
Windows Update services must be stopped before you move the SoftwareDistribution folder. Stopping these services prevents Windows from trying to use the SoftwareDistribution folder during the move, which could cause errors. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type `net stop wuauserv` to stop this service.
Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type the command `net stop wuauserv` to stop the Windows Update service. This is essential for freeing up disk space.
mklink /j c:\windows\SoftwareDistribution e:\NewSoftwareDistribution
Step 3Rename the Old Folder
Open File Explorer and navigate to 📁C:\Windows. Find the SoftwareDistribution folder, right-click it, and choose Rename. Change its name to SoftwareDistribution.old. Requires admin privileges.
Step 4Create a Symbolic Link
Creating a symbolic link tells Windows where to find your SoftwareDistribution folder after you’ve moved it. This ensures that Windows Update still works correctly, even though the folder is in a new spot. Use the command `mklink /j 📁C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution E:\NewSoftwareDistribution` to create this link.
mklink /j C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution E:\NewSoftwareDistribution
If successful, a message will confirm the junction was created. A shortcut icon will appear on the original folder in 📁C:\Windows.
Step 5Move Files and Restart Services
Copy the contents from your old folder (SoftwareDistribution.old) to your new folder (📁E:\NewSoftwareDistribution). Once finished, restart your services by running this command in your admin Command Prompt:
net start wuauserv net start bits
Summary
Moving your Windows update cache is an effective way to reclaim space on a crowded C: drive. By using the mklink command, you create a seamless bridge between your system and a secondary drive. For more information on how Windows manages these files, visit the official Microsoft documentation.
Will moving the SoftwareDistribution folder break Windows Update?
No, it will not break Windows Update if done correctly. By using a symbolic link, you are simply redirecting the path. Windows will continue to see the folder in its original location, but the data will be physically stored on your secondary drive, allowing updates to proceed normally.
Can I delete the old SoftwareDistribution folder after moving it?
Yes, once you have successfully moved the files and verified that Windows Update is working, you can safely delete the SoftwareDistribution.old folder. This will finalize the process of freeing up space on your primary drive. Ensure you have a backup of your files before deleting anything.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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