How to Free Up Space by Moving SoftwareDistribution Folder
The SoftwareDistribution folder stores downloaded updates for Windows 10 and Windows 11 and often grows to 20 gigabytes or more, which quickly fills up smaller C: drives. Moving this folder to an external drive or a secondary partition frees up major disk space while keeping Windows Update working normally.
Located at 📁C:\
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:\
When to use this method
Consider moving the SoftwareDistribution folder when the main C: drive sits consistently full, especially on a small SSD.
Risks and Considerations
Moving the SoftwareDistribution folder using a symbolic link carries risks. For example, Windows Update might stop functioning if the secondary 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:\
The mklink /j command builds a symbolic link (an advanced shortcut that tricks Windows into recognizing a new file path). This process ensures that Windows Update functions correctly, even after transferring the SoftwareDistribution folder to a spot like E:\NewSoftwareDistribution. Running mklink /j C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution E:\NewSoftwareDistribution establishes this necessary link.
Step 2Stop the Windows Update Services
Windows Update services must halt before any files move. Stopping these services prevents Windows from accessing the SoftwareDistribution folder during the transfer, which avoids potential errors. Launch Command Prompt with administrator privileges, then run net stop wuauserv to halt the main update service.
This initial step remains vital for clearing storage capacity without throwing file-in-use exceptions.
mklink /j c:\windows\SoftwareDistribution e:\NewSoftwareDistributionThis action halts both the wuauserv (Windows Update) and bits (Background Intelligent Transfer Service) services, ensuring no files remain locked.
Step 3Rename the Old Folder
Open File Explorer and navigate to C:\Windows. Locate the SoftwareDistribution folder, right-click it, and choose Rename. Change the name to SoftwareDistribution.old. Administrative privileges are required for this action.
Step 4Create a Symbolic Link
Creating a symbolic link points Windows toward the new home of the SoftwareDistribution folder. This guarantees that Windows Update runs properly despite the changed directory. Execute mklink /j C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution E:\NewSoftwareDistribution to generate the link.
mklink /j C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution E:\NewSoftwareDistribution
A confirmation message appears when the junction builds successfully. A shortcut icon emerges on the original folder inside C:\Windows.
Step 5Move Files and Restart Services
Copy the contents from the old directory (SoftwareDistribution.old) into the new destination (E:\NewSoftwareDistribution). Restart the system services afterward by executing this command within an administrative Command Prompt window:
net start wuauserv net start bits
Summary
Moving the update cache stands as an effective method for reclaiming space on a crowded C: drive. This command builds a persistent bridge between the main system drive and secondary storage. Review the official Microsoft documentation for additional details on how Windows handles cache management.
Will moving the SoftwareDistribution folder break Windows Update?
Windows Update functions normally when executed correctly. The symbolic link redirects the path so the operating system reads the original location while the actual data resides on secondary storage, allowing patches to install without interference.
Can I delete the old SoftwareDistribution folder after moving it?
The SoftwareDistribution.old folder can be deleted safely once file transfers finish and Windows Update verifies successfully. This action finalizes the disk cleanup on the primary drive. Always maintain a valid backup before removing system directories.
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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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