All about temporary files in Windows: what they are, what they are for, and how to delete them properly.

Have you ever noticed that your Your computer is running slower than usual or your disk space is running out too quickly.If so, temporary files may be one of the main culprits. Although they're designed to provide temporary support for programs and the operating system, their accumulation can seriously affect your computer's performance.

In this article we tell you everything about temporary files in windows, from what they are and where they are found to how you can safely remove them, both manually and automatically. We also explore specific tools to help you keep your equipment clean and running at its best.

What are temporary files and why are they generated?

Temporary files, also known as "temp" files or files with the .TMP extension, are files that are created temporarily while the operating system or a program executes a task. Its purpose is to store data for a short period of time to facilitate certain actions.

They are created in multiple situations: when installing applications, opening compressed documents, using editing programs (such as Word, Excel or video editors), view content in streaming or even browsing the internet. When these tasks are completed, temporary files should, in theory, be automatically deleted, but this isn't always the case.

Over time, These files accumulate and take up unnecessary disk space., slowing down the system and, in extreme cases, causing errors or failures in programs that try to use them.

Usual location of temporary files

In most versions of Windows, The main folder where these temporary files are stored is located at:

C:\Users\\AppData\Local\Temp

However, for easier access, you can use the system shortcut:

• Balance Windows + R to open the "Run" window.
• Write % Temp% and press Enter.

This will directly open the folder where the user's temporary files are stored.

Please note that some files may be in use and will not allow immediate deletion.In that case, Windows will display an informational message and suggest you skip them. You can also delete them later after restarting your computer.

Is it safe to delete temporary files?

Deleting temporary files is completely safe in most cases.These files typically do not contain important user data and are designed to be discarded once they are no longer needed.

Yes, it is recommended. close all programs before deleting, especially those that may be using temporary files, such as text editors, browsers, or design tools. This will prevent crashes or errors from trying to delete files in use.

Advantages of deleting temporary files

• Disk Space Recovery: On computers with small SSDs, the impact of erasing can be very noticeable.
• Overall Performance Improvement: fewer unnecessary files means faster operations.
• Error reduction: Damaged or corrupted temporary files can cause application crashes.
• Greater privacy: Much temporary data comes from Internet browsing and contains partially sensitive information.

How to delete temporary files manually

One of the most direct ways is to access the %temp% folder from the command Windows + R and select all files with Ctrl + A. Then press Shift + Del to permanently delete them, without going through the trash.

If any file causes a crash error, you can skip it or restart in safe mode and try again from there.

Use Disk Cleanup

Windows includes a tool called Disk Cleanup that analyzes the selected drive and allows you to delete various types of unnecessary files, including temporary ones.

1. Balance Windows + S, writes "Disk Cleanup" and open it as administrator.
2. Select the system drive (usually C:).
3. Wait for the system to analyze the disk.
4. Check options related to temporary files (previous installations, error files, thumbnails, etc.).
5. Click on Accept and confirm.

This method is ideal for those who want a more controlled cleanup without accessing folders manually..

Remove from System Settings

Windows 10 and 11 allow you to quickly delete temporary files from system settings:

1. Opens Configuration and enters System.
2. Click on the tab Storage.
3. Choose Temporary files.
4. Check the file types you want to delete and press Remove files.

This method differentiates between cache files, installation, thumbnails and even data from Windows Update.

Enable Storage Sense for Auto-Erase

Windows includes a feature that can automatically delete temporary files at a custom frequency. This tool is called Storage sensor.

To activate it:

1. Sign in Configuración> Sistema> Almacenamiento.
2. Activate the option Storage sensor.
3. Click on Configure Storage Sense or run it now.
4. Choose whether you want it to run daily, weekly, monthly, or only when you're low on space.

You can also configure the deletion of files from the recycle bin, downloads old and temporary applications.

Delete temporary files with the command prompt

For advanced users, it is also possible to delete temporary files from the symbol of the system:

1. Opens CMD as administrator.
2. Writes: del /q/f/s %TEMP%\ and press Enter.

This command silently deletes files in the %temp% folder. If any files are in use, you'll need to restart your computer or start in Safe Mode.

What about temporary internet files?

Browsers also generate many temporary files: images, scripts, cookies, cache, and history. This data can take up several hundred megabytes or even gigabytes if not deleted periodically.

To remove them manually:

• Go to your browser settings (Chrome, Edge, Firefox…).
• Look for the privacy or history section.
• Clear browsing data by selecting cache, cookies, and history.

Some tools clean this up automatically, such as CCleaner o AVG TuneUp, which cover all browsers with a single click.

Specialized applications to delete temporary files

If you prefer a more convenient and comprehensive solution, there are specific programs to clean temporary files and optimize your system. Some of the best-known are:

CCleaner

One of the most used tools to keep your PC clean. Deletes temporary files, cookies, browsing history, logs, Windows registry entries, and much more. It has a free version with plenty of features.

AVG TuneUp

It offers a very complete analysis of the system, with temporary file cleaning, startup program optimization, and removal of unnecessary applications. It's a paid program but very effective.

BleachBit

Free and open source alternative. Compatible with Windows and Linux, deletes temporary files, cache, and data from over 70 apps. Ideal for technical users.

How often should you clean temporary files?

It depends on how you use the computer.A weekly or biweekly cleanup is generally recommended for average users. If you use your PC for many hours a day, a weekly cleanup can prevent performance issues.

And if you want to automate it, tools like the Storage sensor o AVG TuneUp can make your maintenance tasks much easier.

Temporary files are an inevitable part of daily PC use, and while they serve a useful purpose, their unmaintained accumulation can negatively impact system performance. Keeping them under control through manual cleaning, system tools, or specialized programs helps extend the lifespan of your computer and ensures optimal performance. Regularly managing these files is one of the best practices for keeping your computer in top condition and avoiding future problems.