Windows 11 folders and files you shouldn't delete

Do you need to free up space on your computer? You'll probably want to get rid of things you don't use. However, in these cases, it's best to be cautious, as there are some Windows 11 programs and files that you shouldn't delete to keep it running properly. However, How do you know what you can delete and what you can't? In this article, we explain everything to you so you can avoid any inconvenience.

Windows 11 folders and files you shouldn't delete and why

When installing Windows 11 on our computer A series of folders and files are created that contain the operating system. Typically, this is found on the computer's C drive, although this location can change. This is where the Windows 11 folders and files you shouldn't delete are located. But why? Let's see.

The folders we talked about They are essential for the correct functioning of the operating system on your PCThis means that if you delete the wrong folder or file, it can cause serious problems on your computer. So, let's see which folders and files in Windows 11 you shouldn't delete. First, we'll talk about folders, and then we'll talk about files.

Windows 11 folders and files you shouldn't delete

The Windows 11 folders and files you shouldn't delete are located in the "Windows" folder on the C drive, or wherever your operating system is located. However, there are some specific folders you should NEVER delete if you want your PC to continue running at its best. The folders you should not delete in Windows 11 are:

• System32: This is one of the Windows 11 folders that you should never delete. It contains files that are essential for the operating system to run properly. These include: drivers, libraries and other files that directly assist in the startup and operation of Windows. Deleting this folder will only cause serious problems for the operating system.
• WinSxS: This is the folder in charge of save previous versions of the Windows systemThis means it's essential when performing operating system updates. Deleting it would cause problems updating your PC and would also affect overall system performance.
• Program Files and Program Files (x86): it is in these folders where most of the installed programs and applications are stored on the Windows system. If you delete one or both of these folders, you'll have problems when trying to uninstall or run these programs. We recommend that you never delete them.
• AppData and ProgramData are among the Windows 11 folders and files you shouldn't delete. These particular folders contain important system and installed program settings. Deleting these folders will also cause malfunctions for your programs and the system itself.
• windows.old: This folder is created after a Windows update and contains the previous version of the system. Although it is possible to delete it to free up space on your PC, this would prevent you from being able to revert to a previous version from Windows if necessary.
• prefetch: This is responsible for saving information about frequently used programs to speed up their loading. Although some recommend deleting this folder to free up storage, the truth is that If you delete it, you may affect system performance., then you will have to reload the information of the installed programs.

Windows 11 files you shouldn't delete

Well, as we mentioned, there are folders and files from Windows 11 that you shouldn't delete. So not only should you make sure not to delete the aforementioned folders, but you should also avoid deleting the files inside those folders. Among the Windows 11 files that should not be deleted are the following::

• All files inside the folders mentioned in the previous pointWe already mentioned that you can't delete folders like System32, WinSxS, or ProgramFile (x86) that contain important files. So, obviously, you shouldn't delete the files inside them. This would cause the same problems as deleting those folders.
• Pagefile.sys: This Windows system file is used as virtual memory. It can be used as an extension of RAM when it is fullIf you delete this file, you'll experience errors when running programs that require a large amount of RAM, or your system will slow down due to lack of virtual memory space.
• system filesThe files that come with Windows 11 by default are designed for proper operation. Deleting them would pose a serious risk to your system and installed programs.
• Files of installed programs: Programs installed on Windows 11, whether from the factory or by yourself, contain files that are essential to run the programIf you delete them, you risk causing these programs or applications to malfunction.

Windows 11 Folders and Files You Shouldn't Delete: What You Need to Know

As you can see, there are indeed Windows 11 folders and files that you should never delete. Doing so would open the door to inconveniences and problems when using the operating system and the programs or applications you've installed on it. So, It is best to be cautious when deciding what to delete and what not to delete..

Now, Does this mean you can delete all the other folders not mentioned in the lists above? No. All the folders and files created when you install Windows are necessary for it to work. So, unless you're an expert on the subject and know exactly which Windows 11 folders and files you shouldn't delete, it's best to leave them as they are.

In conclusion, now that you know there are folders and files in Windows 11 that you shouldn't delete, if you're unsure about deleting something, it's best not to. It's better for these folders to use up some of your computer's memory than to cause irreversible problems. Therefore, if you want to free up more space, delete Windows temporary files or uninstall programs you no longer use to avoid unnecessary risks.