How to Remove Prefetch Files on Windows

Windows stores prefetch files to help apps and startup processes load faster. These files usually help performance, but over time they can become outdated, especially after uninstalling programs, major Windows updates, or repeated software changes. In some cases, users want to clear them while troubleshooting slow boot times, app launch issues, or general system clutter.

What Causes This?

Prefetch files are created automatically by Windows and stored in the C:\Windows\Prefetch folder. As you install, remove, and update apps, old entries can pile up and no longer reflect what your PC actually uses. While Windows normally manages this folder on its own, stale prefetch data can sometimes be worth clearing during troubleshooting.

Common Symptoms

• Slow startup after lots of software installs or removals
• Apps taking longer than usual to open
• Old or unused program traces building up in system folders
• You are troubleshooting performance issues and want to clear temporary system data
• Disk cleanup tools reporting unnecessary system clutter

How to Fix It Manually

1. Sign in with an administrator account

   • You may need admin permission to access and delete files in the Prefetch folder.
   • If you are using a standard account, switch to an administrator account first.

2. Open File Explorer

   • Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
   • Click the address bar at the top.

3. Go to the Prefetch folder

   • Type C:\Windows\Prefetch and press Enter.
   • If Windows asks for permission, click Continue.

4. Select the files

   • In the Prefetch folder, press Ctrl + A to select everything.
   • You will usually see files with the .pf extension and sometimes other related files.

5. Delete the selected files

   • Press Delete on your keyboard, or right-click the selection and choose Delete.
   • If prompted for administrator permission, approve it.
   • If some files cannot be deleted, skip them. Windows may still be using a few active entries.

6. Empty the Recycle Bin

   • Right-click Recycle Bin on your desktop and choose Empty Recycle Bin.
   • This fully removes the deleted files.

7. Restart your PC

   • Click Start > Power > Restart.
   • Windows will rebuild prefetch data automatically as you use your PC again.

8. Check performance after reboot

   • The first startup or app launch may be slightly slower while Windows recreates useful prefetch files.
   • Use the PC normally for a bit, then see if startup or app behavior improves.

Important: Don’t delete the entire Windows folder or change other system files while doing this. Also, clearing prefetch regularly is not usually necessary — it’s mainly a troubleshooting step, not routine maintenance.

Fix It Automatically with Kudu

If you don’t want to dig through system folders yourself, Kudu can scan your PC for unnecessary temporary files and other safe-to-remove clutter, including data that may be worth clearing during performance troubleshooting. It’s a simpler way to clean up Windows without guessing which files are safe to remove.

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