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How to Delete Windows BT Folder in Windows 10

Guide 10-38748 · Updated · Step by step

This guide shows you how to safely delete the Windows BT folder in Windows 10. This folder stores temporary upgrade files used by Windows Update, and removing it can free up several gigabytes of disk space. You’ll need to be logged in as an administrator and may need to change folder permissions before deletion.

What You’ll Need

  • An administrator account on Windows 10
  • At least 10–20 minutes of time
  • Basic comfort with File Explorer and Command Prompt

Step-by-Step

  1. Check if the folder exists. Open File Explorer and navigate to C:\Windows\. Look for a folder named Windows BT (note the space). If you don’t see it, it may be hidden. Click the View tab and check Hidden items.
  2. Take ownership of the folder. Right-click the Windows BT folder and select Properties. Go to the Security tab, click Advanced, then next to Owner click Change. Type your username, click Check Names, then OK. Check Replace owner on subcontainers and objects and click OK.
  3. Grant yourself full control. Back in the Security tab, click Edit, select your username, and check Full control under Allow. Click Apply and OK.
  4. Try deleting normally. Select the folder and press Shift + Delete to permanently delete it (bypasses Recycle Bin). If it deletes, you’re done.
  5. If deletion fails, use Command Prompt. Open Start, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
  6. Run the remove command. In the Command Prompt, type the following and press Enter:
    rd /s /q "C:\Windows\Windows BT"
    This forcefully removes the folder and all subfolders without prompting.
  7. Wait for completion. The command may take several minutes if the folder is large. Do not close the window until the prompt returns.
  8. Verify deletion. After the command finishes, check that the folder is gone by navigating to C:\Windows\ again.
  9. Run Disk Cleanup (optional). To remove any leftover upgrade files, open Disk Cleanup, select your system drive, click Clean up system files, then check Windows Update Cleanup and click OK.

Common Mistakes

  • Forgetting to unhide the folder. The Windows BT folder is often hidden. If you don’t see it, enable hidden items in File Explorer.
  • Skipping ownership changes. Without taking ownership, you’ll get “Access Denied” errors even as administrator.
  • Deleting while Windows Update is running. If an update is in progress, the folder may be locked. Wait until updates finish.
  • Using Recycle Bin. Pressing Delete alone sends the folder to Recycle Bin, which still occupies disk space. Use Shift+Delete or the command prompt.

Tips

  • Free up space safely. The Windows BT folder is only needed during feature updates. Once you’ve installed the latest update, it’s safe to remove.
  • Use Disk Cleanup first. Sometimes Disk Cleanup can remove the folder automatically without manual steps.
  • Check disk space before and after. Note your free space before deletion to confirm how much you reclaimed.
  • If you plan to upgrade soon, keep it. If you’re about to run a feature update (like 22H2), keep the folder until the update completes successfully.

Troubleshooting

  • “Access Denied” error. Make sure you’ve taken ownership as described in Step 2. Also confirm you’re using an administrator account.
  • “Folder is in use” error. Close all programs, especially Windows Update or Settings. Restart your PC and try again immediately after boot.
  • Command prompt says “The system cannot find the file specified.” This means the folder doesn’t exist or the path is wrong. Double-check the spelling and that hidden items are visible.
  • Deletion hangs. If the command seems stuck, it may be due to a large number of files. Wait longer. If it still hangs, restart and try again.
  • Folder reappears after deletion. This can happen if Windows Update is still downloading new upgrade files. Delete again after disabling Windows Update temporarily (not recommended unless necessary).
  • Disk space not freed. Check if the folder was actually deleted. If not, run Disk Cleanup and select Windows Update Cleanup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to delete the Windows BT folder?

Yes, as long as you’re not in the middle of a feature update. The folder only contains temporary upgrade files. After a successful update, it’s safe to remove.

Why is the Windows BT folder so large?

It contains installation files for Windows feature updates, which can be several gigabytes. The size varies depending on the update and your system.

Can I delete the Windows BT folder without taking ownership?

No. The folder is protected by TrustedInstaller. You must take ownership and grant yourself full control first.

What happens if I delete it before an update?

If a feature update is pending, deleting the folder may cause the update to fail or force Windows to re-download the files. It’s best to wait until the update is installed.

Will deleting Windows BT affect my personal files?

No. The folder only contains system update files. Your personal data is untouched.

How often should I delete it?

Only when you need space and after a feature update has completed. Windows typically cleans it up automatically after a while, but manual deletion can speed things up.

Related

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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