After upgrading to a new version of Windows, your system retains the old version for a short period, typically ten days. This grace period allows users to revert to the previous version if needed. However, if you’re satisfied with the upgrade and need to reclaim disk space, you can manually delete the old version. Here’s a step-by-step guide to safely remove your previous Windows installation.
Important Considerations
Before proceeding, it’s essential to understand the implications of deleting the old Windows version, typically stored in a folder called “Windows.old.” This folder contains crucial system files that allow you to revert to your previous Windows version. If you delete these files, you cannot roll back the upgrade, so ensure that your new system setup is stable and all your files are intact.
Steps to Delete the Previous Version of Windows
- Open Settings: Press the Windows logo key on your keyboard to open the Start menu. From there, select “Settings,” which you can also access by clicking the gear icon in the Start menu.
- Navigate to Storage Settings: In the Settings window, click on “System,” then select “Storage” from the left-hand menu. This section allows you to manage your disk space and see what is occupying your storage.
- Access Temporary Files: Under the list of drives, you’ll see an option for “Temporary files.” Click on this to view and manage temporary and system files that can be safely removed.
- Select Previous Windows Installation: Among the options, you’ll find a check box for “Previous version of Windows.” This option will only appear if you have an older version stored on your computer.
- Remove Files: After selecting the “Previous version of Windows” check box, click “Remove files” to initiate the deletion process. The system will then proceed to delete the Windows.old folder, freeing up significant disk space.
Final Caution
Deleting the previous version of Windows is a one-way action. Ensure you no longer need to revert to your older Windows setup before proceeding. This process is particularly useful for those who are confident that their system is running smoothly and need to free up additional storage space.
By following these steps, you can efficiently manage your storage and ensure your system runs optimally without unnecessary files from previous installations.
