SoftwareDistribution folder holds a very critical place in Microsoft Windows operation especially when it comes to updating the Windows components. This folder usually contains Windows installation files which are required during the Windows update process. On Technical terms, during the windows update process this folder is responsible for keeping necessary files on temporary basis to install new updates to keep your device secure and with the latest fixes and improvements. It is usually located in the Windows Directory and it’s size could vary from 1Mb to GB’s depending upon your system. In my case it was around 1 GB and can be seen in the below screen shot. It can be located at C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution
What is the Purpose of SoftwareDistribution Folder? Can I delete SoftwareDistribution Folder? Is it Safe to Rename SoftwareDistribution Folder?
Well these are the most frequently asked questions with regards to the presence of SoftwareDistribution folder. For the first part of question, as said above the primary purpose of having SoftwareDistribution folder is to assist in Microsoft Windows Update functionality. So while looking at the purpose of SoftwareDistribution you might be interested in knowing whether is it safe to delete this folder or can we rename SoftwareDistribution folder in Windows 10 to some other name.
The answer to the question is an Obvious – ‘YES’….Yes you can absolutely delete or rename this folder and is often done as a troubleshooting step when users are facing update issues in their Windows. Once you delete or rename the original folder a new folder gets created automatically and hence as a result your Windows update starts working properly. Once you delete the folder all the older windows updates that were getting de-synchronized start working in synchronization once the folder is recreated.
Apart from the Basic Windows Update components it also contains your Windows Update History files. So if you happen to delete this folder you will eventually end up losing your Update history. Moreover, the next time you run Windows Update, it will result in a longer detection time.
When do you opt for deleting SoftwareDistribution Folder or Renaming this Folder?
If in case you happen to face update issues or you see the size of SoftwareDistribution folder on increasing note then you can consider to go for deletion or renaming SoftwareDistribution folder. For Deleting or Renaming Software Distribution Please follow the below detailed troubleshooting post:
If in case you still happen to face any doubts or issues, please feel free to ask us by commenting below and we would be more than happy to address your queries. Thanks!
