Empty the user temp folder

Empty the user temp folder

Information

The user temporary folder is where files may be temporarily stored by windows, these can include parts of installers used on the system.

Steps

  1. Close all open applications and windows on the computer to release any active temporary files.
  2. Right click the Start button and choose “Run” in the context menu.
  3. In the “Run” command box type the following exactly and click “OK” button:
  4. %tmp%
  5. A new Explore window will open showing the contents of the user temporary files.
  6. Use either of these method depending on the Windows being used
    • Windows 10: Click “Home” ribbon and then click “Select All” button or press CONTROL+A shortcut command to select all files.
    • Windows 11: Click the menu button showing three dots on the toolbar at the top, then click “Select All” button or use the CONTROL+A shortcut command to select all files.
  7. Then click the delete button in the toolbar at the top of press the “Del” key on your keyboard to delete the files.

Windows 10 Toolbar showing delete button (large cross graphic) with the word “Delete” underneath


Windows 11 toolbar showing delete button (bin graphic)