SOVLED! Files With Random Numbers and Letters in C: Drive

Usually, if you notice files with random numbers and letters in C: drive, don’t worry since they only contain temporary data used for Windows processes. If such files unnerve you, you could delete them, run Disc Cleanup, perform a malware scan and so on. Spare a bit of your time to check out this article and learn what must be done. 

What Is Going On

For your information, files with random numbers and letters in C: drive tend to be made up of GUID (Global Unique ID) files. GUID files play a key role in the update of Windows and a new GUID file is created each time a new update is out. Usually, GUID would go away by themselves after the update finishes. As a result, Windows users don’t have to do a thing. It’s noteworthy that there is no harm in deleting GUID files following the conclusion of Windows updates.

Still, if you notice strange files in C: drive, it’s impossible to be too careful. Depending on the situation, you should assume that something malicious is at play and take precautions. 

Actions To Take

Wait 

As mentioned above, there is a good chance that files with random numbers and letters in C: drive participate in certain processes on Windows computers. If your PC is working as expected, feel free to ignore the files. The files should vanish as soon as they complete their purpose, therefore, you don’t need to lift a finger. On occasions, it won’t hurt to restart the computers then see how things turn out. 

Delete The Files 

If you don’t want to see the files every time you open the C: drive, you could delete them. All you have to do is to highlight each of the files, press Shift + Delete and restart your computer. When the screen comes back on, go to C: drive and determine whether the issue persists. 

Run Disk Cleanup 

• Step 1: Go to Search bar, type Disk Cleanup and press Enter.
• Step 2: Select the C: drive then choose OK.
• Step 3: Click Clean up system files, pick the C: drive and hit OK
• Step 4: Choose file types to delete and select Delete Files.
• Step 5: After the process finishes, restart your computer.

Perform A Malware Scan

• Step 1: Press Windows + I to open Settings.
• Step 2: Select Update & Security and choose Virus & threat protection in Windows Security. 
• Step 3: Click Scan options, pick Full scan and hit Scan now
• Step 4: Allow the scan to go all the way 
• Step 5: Restart your computer.

Other Common Questions

Is it OK to delete temp files on Windows PC?

There is no harm in deleting temp files in Windows as they will be automatically recreated as needed. However, if you delete temp files currently used by computer processes, crashing is one of the consequences. 

Will deleting temp files make my computer faster?

When you delete temp files, you are removing files that can take up valuable resources from memory to storage space. That can help your computer run faster and more efficiently.

How come my temporary files are so large?

Every time you create or download a file, it is often stored in a temporary folder on your hard drive. As a result, temporary files can accumulate over time and take up a lot of space. Some programs also create temporary files that are much larger than the original file.

Is it safe to use Disk Cleanup?

Generally speaking, Disk Cleanup is a safe way to free up space on your hard drive. That being said, there are some risks involved once it comes to using Disk Cleanup. That is why it won’t hurt to create a backup of important data before using Disk Cleanup.