Ever tried deleting the WindowsApps folder and got hit with an “Access Denied” error? You’re not alone.
The WindowsApps folder is a hidden system folder where Windows 11 stores apps installed from the Microsoft Store — and sometimes even system components. It’s usually found inside the C:\Program Files directory, and it’s locked by default for security reasons.
But sometimes, you might need to delete it — for example, when reinstalling apps, freeing up space, or fixing corrupted installations.
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to delete the WindowsApps folder in Windows 11 step by step — safely and without breaking your system.
What Is the WindowsApps Folder?
Before we start deleting anything, let’s understand what this folder does.
It stores Microsoft Store apps and their data.
It’s hidden by default to prevent accidental deletion.
It’s owned by a special account called TrustedInstaller to protect system integrity.
Why You Might Want to Delete It
Here are the most common reasons users delete this folder:
Corrupted apps taking up space
Leftover data after uninstalling a game or app
Reinstalling Microsoft Store apps from scratch
Moving apps to another drive and clearing old data
Important Warning Before You Proceed
⚠️ Deleting the WindowsApps folder can break some apps or system features.
Only do this if:
You know what you’re doing
You’ve backed up important data
You’re sure you don’t need those apps
Step 1: Locate the WindowsApps Folder
Open File Explorer.
Navigate to
C:\Program Files.If you don’t see WindowsApps, click View > Show > Hidden items.
You should now see the folder, but you still can’t open or delete it yet.
Step 2: Take Ownership of the WindowsApps Folder
The main reason you can’t delete it is because TrustedInstaller owns it. Here’s how to take control.
Option 1: Take Ownership Manually
Right-click WindowsApps > Properties.
Go to Security > Advanced.
Click Change next to Owner.
Type your username > click Check Names > OK.
Check Replace owner on subcontainers and objects.
Click Apply and close the window.
You now own the folder.
Option 2: Use Command Prompt
For faster results:
Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Run this command:
Then grant full permissions:
Step 3: Delete the WindowsApps Folder
Once you have full control, deleting it is simple.
Right-click WindowsApps.
Select Delete.
Confirm the prompt and wait — it may take time if the folder is large.
Step 4: Use PowerShell for Stubborn Folders
If the folder still refuses to delete, use PowerShell.
Open PowerShell as Administrator.
Run:
This forces deletion, bypassing permission errors.
Step 5: Clean Up Residual Files
After deletion, you might still have some leftover data.
Check
C:\Program Filesfor any empty folders.Clear your Temp files by pressing Win + R, typing
%temp%, and deleting everything.
Step 6: Reinstall Microsoft Store (Optional)
If you accidentally removed needed apps, you can reinstall Microsoft Store.
Open PowerShell as Administrator.
Run:
This reinstalls the Store app.
Alternative Method: Delete from Another Drive
If your WindowsApps folder is on a different drive (e.g., D:), you can delete it even more easily after taking ownership — it won’t affect your main Windows installation.
Troubleshooting Tips
You Get Access Denied
Make sure you have:
Taken ownership properly
Given your account full control permissions
Run commands as Administrator
The Folder Keeps Coming Back
Windows might recreate it when you install new apps — this is normal.
Safety Tips
Don’t delete the folder on your C: drive unless absolutely necessary.
If you just want to free up space, consider moving apps to another drive via Settings > Apps > Installed Apps.
Benefits of Deleting WindowsApps Folder
Frees up disk space
Fixes app installation issues
Removes corrupted or leftover data
Risks of Deleting WindowsApps Folder
Can break some Microsoft Store apps
May require you to reinstall Microsoft Store
Might affect Windows system updates
Conclusion
Deleting the WindowsApps folder in Windows 11 can solve problems like corrupted apps and wasted disk space — but you must be careful. Taking ownership, granting permissions, and using PowerShell or Command Prompt are key steps to do this safely.
Only delete this folder if you’re sure you don’t need the apps inside. When in doubt, back up your data first or move apps instead of deleting them.
FAQs
1. Can I delete WindowsApps folder without taking ownership?
No — you must take ownership or you’ll get an “Access Denied” error.
2. Will deleting WindowsApps break Windows 11?
It won’t break Windows itself, but it will remove Microsoft Store apps and may cause issues if those apps are required.
3. Is it safe to delete WindowsApps from a secondary drive?
Yes — as long as it’s not your system drive.
4. Can I recover the folder after deleting it?
Yes — reinstalling apps from Microsoft Store will recreate it.
5. Why is my WindowsApps folder so large?
Because it stores all installed Microsoft Store apps, including big games and system components.