What is Windows prefetch folder?
Windows prefetch folder is a system folder that stores information about files that are loaded into memory. This folder is used by the Windows operating system to optimize the performance of applications and device drivers. Prefetch files contain information on how to load an application or device driver quickly, which can be useful for computers with limited RAM (Random Access Memory). The prefetch file’s name includes the computer’s name, which can be helpful when troubleshooting issues with an application or device driver. The file extensions for these files include .pf and .pref. etc. Let us explain how to delete files in the Windows Prefetch folder? You may read the complete guide about Prefetch and Superfetch Memory management features in Windows.
Why you should delete prefetch folder?
Windows 11 Prefetch folder takes more space with time because of outdated files stored in it. So it is necessary to clear all the files in the folder once in a while, doing this might improve your system performance. In this article, we will be looking at how you can delete the prefetch files on a PC or Laptop.
The best thing about this method is we are not using any third-party application that can create problems for you in the future. Before we get into the topic first of all we will discuss.
Where is the Prefetch folder located in Windows 10/11 ?
Prefetch folder is located under C:\Windows\ directory.
Full Path of Windows Prefetch Folder is
C:\Windows\PrefetchHow To Delete Prefetch Folder In Windows 11 or 10
Go to C: Drive and open Windows Folder.
Search for Prefetch Folder and open it.
When you open it you will receive a message saying “You don’t currently have permission to access this folder.” Click on Continue
Select all the files and Delete them
This article will cover how you can delete the prefetch files on your Windows 11 PC or laptop. We hope this guide helps you to understand prefetch files and how you can delete them.
Frequently Asked Question
Is it OK to delete prefetch files?
Yes, it is safe to delete Windows 11 prefetch files and it will not harm your PC. Deleting the old prefetch will speed up your computer.
What happens if I delete all Windows 11 Prefetch Folder?
The prefetched files help the program load faster. When you delete these files the loading time of applications or software and boot time will increase.
