Windows C Drive Cleanup

Core Rule

Treat Windows system-drive cleanup as a staged safety workflow, not a deletion task.

Never delete, move, uninstall, change ACLs, or take ownership until the user explicitly approves a named operation on exact paths or packages.

Safety Principles

• Start with read-only scans.
• Do not upload, transmit, or summarize private file contents.
• Report paths and sizes only as needed for cleanup decisions.
• Classify each candidate before recommending action.
• Prefer clearing cache contents over deleting parent app folders.
• Preserve user data by default.
• Use vendor uninstallers or package managers for installed applications.
• Use Windows-supported tools for component stores and updates.
• Treat C:\Windows\Installer as high risk and use quarantine, hash verification, and logs before any deletion.