Forum Discussion
Is it safe to delete this file in Windows 11?
I’ve seen a few videos claiming that deleting certain files from a specific folder can improve my computer’s performance, but to be honest, I’m too scared to try it. I’m not really sure what those files actually do, and the last thing I want is to mess up something important. I’m using a Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15ITL6—nothing special, just a regular laptop.
Can anyone explain whether it’s actually safe to delete files from that folder, or is this just one of those risky tips circulating online? I’d much rather keep my system stable than chase after a negligible speed boost, but if it really is harmless, I’d like to know more about it.
3 Replies
Without knowing which specific folder or file you're referring to, no one can give you a safe answer—deleting random files based on YouTube tips is exactly how people break their systems.
Hi, yes you can select everything and delete it without any issue. Some files may say "in use" or "access denied", just skip those, they're actively being used by a running program and Windows won't let you delete them anyway.
Anyway, you likely won't feel a speed difference deleting those files.
Your screenshot shows the Run command %temp%, which opens a temporary-files folder; it is not a particular file that can be judged safe from its name alone. Cleaning unnecessary temporary files can recover storage, but it is not a guaranteed performance upgrade for your IdeaPad. The safer starting point is Settings, System, Storage, Temporary files, or Cleanup recommendations. Review each category before removing anything, especially Downloads and the Recycle Bin if either contains files you still want. Save your work and close applications before cleanup. If you inspect the temporary folder manually, do not delete its parent folder or force removal of files Windows reports as in use. Avoid changing permissions just to make deletion succeed. Check available storage afterwards. If the laptop remains slow despite adequate free space, investigate the actual CPU, memory, or disk activity instead of repeatedly deleting temporary files.
