Windows 10, Microsoft’s highly popular operating system, receives frequent updates to improve performance and security. Microsoft’s Update Assistant is a key component in this process. It helps to download and install updates without any problems. It is important to know where these files are located for a variety of reasons. We’ll take a look at the installation files and the download process.
Windows 10 Update Assistant: What is it?
Microsoft created the Update Assistant to assist users in installing updates. This software checks for Windows 10 updates automatically and downloads them as soon as they become available. This program is particularly useful for users who don’t use automatic Windows Updates or when a particular update doesn’t install using the normal process.
How Does Update Assistant Work
The Update Assistant checks compatibility of your system with the most recent update before you launch it. It checks that your PC meets minimum hardware requirements. The software will download the update if your system is compatible.
Where to find downloaded setup files
Windows Update Assistant stores the setup files on a hidden drive in your computer, which is usually C:. The specific path is C:\$Windows.~BT\Sources. This folder is not easily visible, and it is marked as a “system folder” to prevent accidental deletion of downloaded files.
Hidden Folder: Understanding its Hidden Function
The $Windows.BT is a hidden folder that Windows Update, Windows Setup and Windows Update Assistant use. The folder contains the setup files, installation files and other data required to install Windows and update your system.
This folder will be created when the Update Assistant downloads successfully the setup files. They’ll remain there until the update begins. You’ll need administrator permission to open this folder as it is a system protected folder.
How to access the downloaded files
Follow these steps to access the hidden folder or the downloaded files:
- Open File Explorer.
- Click on the C: drive.
- Check the box labelled “Hidden Items” when you click on the tab titled “View”. This will show all hidden files and folders.
- Open the
$Windows.BTdirectory.
Be aware that modifying files in this directory can result in failed updates or unstable systems. You should not delete or change these files unless the consequences are clear or you have been given trusted advice.
Managing Disk Space
Windows can help you if you are worried about space on your hard drive. Windows deletes setup files after an update to make disk space available. If you want to clear space right away after a software update, the Disk Cleanup tool can be used.
Using Disk Cleanup
To use Disk Cleanup:
- Enter ‘Disk Cleaning’ in the search box and click on it.
- Click ‘OK’ to select the C: drive.
- Click on ‘Cleaning up system files’.
- Click ‘OK’ again to select the C: drive.
- Click ‘OK’ after checking ‘Temporary Windows Installation Files’.
These files are necessary for rolling back Windows updates. Only delete them if there is no need to go back to an older version.
conclusion
It can be very helpful to know where Update Assistant stores and downloads setup files, especially when you are troubleshooting or managing disk space. These files may be hidden, but they can still accessed in case of need. They should be modified only with caution due to their crucial role in maintaining system stability and updates. Windows always has the necessary mechanisms to ensure that your system is performing optimally.
