Windows xp how to delete all old files safely

Microsoft regularly makes available critical Windows XP and Windows security patches or hotfixes as they are also called which ensure that your operating system keeps up to date. Regardless of how the hotfix is obtained, there is one thing you should be aware of. All of the files that will be replaced by hotfixes are backed up on your hard drive just in case the update goes bad and you need to return your PC to its prior state and uninstall the patch.

These older files that are replaced are stored in hidden folders in your Windows system folder. Are these backed up files useful to retain, or can they be deleted and disk space freed up? All of the updates will be listed there by date. However, if a number of days and weeks pass and your computer is running fine, then there should be no more need to keep those backed up old files on your hard drive.

But since these files are stored in hidden folders, it may not be obvious to the average user how to delete the folders and their accompanying files. Here are 5 tools and a manual method that you can use to easily delete backup files that were created when installing a Windows hotfix or service pack update. If you do, just click defragment and let it run. Now to run the disk clean up you want to begin by clicking on the "start" button then clicking on the "all programs" and going to accessories and choosing system tools.

Once at system tools click on "disk clean up", and select which drive you want to clean up and let it run.

Learn why people trust wikiHow. Download Article Explore this Article parts. Tips and Warnings. Related Articles. Part 1. Back up any files you want to save. Once you delete the files from your computer, getting them back will be nearly impossible. You can use a USB drive or an external hard drive to back up your files.

Insert your Windows XP install disc into your computer. If you no longer have your XP install disc, you'll have to buy a replacement. You can also download an XP installation file and burn it to a CD , though you'll need the accompanying purchase key. Restart your computer. Press and hold Del or F2 to enter setup. The key you're prompted to press might also be different; most computers will display a message on startup that says "Press [key] to enter setup" or something similar.

You can look at your computer model's manual or online support page to confirm your computer's BIOS key. Select the Boot tab. Use the arrow keys to move the selection box over to Boot. The Boot tab may instead say Boot Options , depending on your computer's manufacturer. You may have to press a different key here. Check the key legend on this screen to confirm. Save your settings. Software Patch. Is the file in use? It sounds obvious but it happens.

If it is being used or open, close the file and the application that opened it. For example, if it is a Word document, close Microsoft Word. If the file was opened in an application and subsequently closed , but the program is still running, try quitting the program. Windows will lock a file because the application hasn't yet released it. This is not always Windows fault and can be the fault of the program. DivX files don't get on very well with Windows XP and sometimes renaming the file can trick Windows into releasing it.

Reboot your PC and don't start any programs.