Clear Delivery Optimization Cache in Windows 11/10

When you download Windows updates, Microsoft Store apps, or certain system files, Windows uses a feature called Delivery Optimization to make downloads faster and more efficient. It does this by storing temporary update files in a local cache on your computer. While this cache helps speed up future downloads, it can gradually grow larger over time and occupy valuable storage space.

In some cases, a corrupted or outdated Delivery Optimization Cache may also contribute to update-related issues, such as failed downloads, stuck updates, or repeated download attempts. Clearing the cache removes these temporary files without affecting your personal documents, installed applications, or important system settings.

In this guide, you’ll learn what the Delivery Optimization Cache is, why you may want to clear it, and the safest methods to remove it in Windows 11 and Windows 10. 

Delivery Optimization Cache

Delivery Optimization is a Windows feature that helps your computer download updates more efficiently. Instead of downloading every update directly from Microsoft’s servers, Windows can also obtain parts of an update from other computers on your local network or from devices connected through the internet, depending on your settings.

To make this process faster, Windows stores downloaded update files in a temporary folder called the Delivery Optimization Cache. This cache acts as temporary storage and allows Windows to reuse update files when needed instead of downloading them again.

Although this cache improves update performance, it is not designed to store files permanently. Over time, the cache may consume several gigabytes of disk space, especially on systems that receive frequent feature updates.

Clearing the Delivery Optimization Cache is completely safe because Windows automatically recreates the cache whenever it is needed. Removing these temporary files simply frees up storage and can sometimes resolve update download problems.

Clear Delivery Optimization Cache in Windows 11/10

There are several safe methods to clear the Delivery Optimization Cache. The easiest approach is through Disk Cleanup, while other methods include using Storage Sense or manually deleting cached files if necessary.

The following methods work for both Windows 11 and Windows 10. If one method does not remove the cache completely, you can safely try another method.

Step 1: Open Disk Cleanup

The easiest and most recommended method for clearing the Delivery Optimization Cache is by using Disk Cleanup.

Begin by clicking the Start button and typing Disk Cleanup into the search box. When the application appears in the search results, click it to open.

If your computer has multiple drives, Windows will ask you to choose the drive you want to clean. In almost every case, this is the C: drive because it contains the Windows installation and update files. Select the drive and click OK.

Disk Cleanup will now analyze your system. This process may take anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes depending on the amount of temporary data stored on your computer. During this time, Windows scans for files that can be safely removed.

Once the scan is complete, a list of removable file categories will appear.

Step 2: Select Delivery Optimization Files

After the Disk Cleanup window opens, carefully review the available categories.

Locate the option labeled Delivery Optimization Files. This category contains temporary update files that Windows no longer requires.

Place a check mark beside Delivery Optimization Files.

You may also notice other temporary file categories such as Temporary Internet Files, Temporary Files, DirectX Shader Cache, or Recycle Bin. If you also want to free additional storage, you can select those categories after confirming that you no longer need their contents.

Take a moment to verify that Downloads is not selected if you wish to keep files stored in your Downloads folder. This helps prevent accidentally deleting personal files.

After making your selections, click OK.

Windows will ask you to confirm the deletion. Choose Delete Files to begin removing the cache.

The cleanup process usually finishes within a few minutes, although larger caches may require additional time.

Step 3: Use Storage Sense to Remove Delivery Optimization Cache

If you prefer using the newer Windows settings interface, Storage Sense provides another simple way to remove cached files.

Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.

Navigate to System, then open Storage.

Depending on your version of Windows, you may see Temporary Files or Cleanup Recommendations. Click the available option to continue.

Windows will scan your storage and display different categories of removable files.

Find Delivery Optimization Files and place a check mark beside it.

Review the remaining file categories carefully before proceeding. Once you’re satisfied with your selections, click Remove Files.

Windows will immediately begin deleting the selected cache files.

This method is especially convenient because it combines several storage management tools into one location, making it easier to maintain your computer regularly.

Step 4: Restart Your Computer

Although restarting is not always required, it is a good practice after removing cached update files.

Save any open work before restarting your computer.

Click the Start button, choose the Power icon, and select Restart.

During the restart process, Windows refreshes several background services related to updates and temporary storage. This helps ensure that any cached files currently in use are properly released.

After your computer starts again, Windows will automatically create a new Delivery Optimization Cache whenever future updates are downloaded.

Step 5: Verify That the Cache Has Been Cleared

After restarting your computer, you can confirm that the cleanup was successful.

Open Settings, navigate to System, and then select Storage.

Allow Windows to recalculate your storage usage. This may take a minute or two.

Compare your available storage space with the amount available before performing the cleanup. In many cases, you’ll notice that additional disk space has been recovered, especially if your system recently installed large Windows updates.

If the cache was particularly large, you may recover several gigabytes of storage.

If Windows downloads another update later, don’t be surprised if the cache grows again. This is completely normal because the cache is designed to temporarily store update files as needed.

FAQs

Is it safe to clear the Delivery Optimization Cache?

Yes. Delivery Optimization Files are temporary update files. Removing them does not delete your personal files, installed applications, or Windows itself.

Will deleting the cache uninstall Windows updates?

No. Clearing the cache only removes temporary download files. Installed updates remain on your computer and continue to function normally.

Why does the Delivery Optimization Cache become large?

The cache stores downloaded update packages and Microsoft Store content temporarily. Major Windows feature updates can cause the cache to grow significantly before Windows automatically removes older files.

Can Windows recreate the Delivery Optimization Cache?

Yes. Windows automatically creates a new cache whenever future updates or supported downloads require temporary storage.

How often should I clear the Delivery Optimization Cache?

There is no fixed schedule. Most users only need to clear it when storage space is running low or when troubleshooting Windows Update download problems.

Will clearing the cache make future updates slower?

The next update may take slightly longer because Windows needs to download fresh files. Afterward, the cache will begin working normally again to improve download efficiency.

Summary

The Delivery Optimization Cache is a temporary storage location that helps Windows 11 and Windows 10 download updates more efficiently. While it serves an important purpose, these cached files are not permanent and can occupy unnecessary disk space over time.

Using Disk Cleanup remains the simplest and most reliable way to remove Delivery Optimization Files, while Storage Sense offers a modern alternative through the Settings app. 

After clearing the cache and restarting your computer, Windows automatically rebuilds the cache whenever future updates require it.