What are these folders and how to delete them?

The first thing we will do is to identify these folders. We have already mentioned that they are created automatically by the system. Specifically before starting a major upgrade. Likewise, they are only visible if we activate the Show hidden files option. In addition, their function is to avoid any problems at the time of the update. Since they work as backup files. Let’s see the function of each one:

• $WINDOWS.~BT: Here the data of the current Windows 10 version is saved before upgrading. Therefore, in case of any unforeseen event, the system can revert to the previous version. A way to avoid the problems of a new upgrade.
• $Windows.~WS: This folder stores the installation files for the next version. So from there Windows extracts the files to install the update.

After upgrading the system, these folders are no longer needed. So deleting them can save storage space. Especially on computers with scarce storage. However, this does not imply that we can delete them carelessly.

How to securely remove this folders from Windows.

The first thing you have to do is to enable the hidden file view. With this in mind, you just need to enter the file explorer. Just press the Win+E combination. Then click on the View menu. Finally, check the corresponding box.

However, we will not send these folders to the recycle garbage can. Instead, we will use a Windows cleanup function. With this in mind, open the file explorer again. Next, right-click on Drive C. Then, click on Properties.

In the next window, click on the General tab. Now click on Disk Cleanup.

The system will immediately start calculating the space available for cleaning.

A new window will be displayed. Please click on Clean System Files. Indeed, this option allows you to delete internal folders of the operating system. In this case, $WINDOWS.~BT and $Windows.~WS.

A new window will pop up. Please check the boxes corresponding to the Windows update.

Just confirm and wait while the wizard cleans up. In this way, we have seen how to remove the $WINDOWS.~BT and $Windows.~WS folders from Windows 10. So these folders will be history. At least until the next update. Bye!

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