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Summary: The WinSxS (Windows Side-by-Side) folder is an essential part of Windows, storing different versions of system files to achieve compatibility and stability. However, the folder tends to gather many duplicate files, leading to concerns regarding their waste of disk space. These duplicates behave from how Windows handles application dependencies, allowing both old and new applications to run without difficulty. That means as storage requirements grow, it is important to understand why are duplicate files in the Winsxs folder exist and how we can manage them is crucial for now and future operating system updates.

Purpose of Their Presence

Let’s dive here to know more about these files and folders to clear out the concepts on why are duplicate files in the WinSxS folder:

• The WinSxS folder stores multiple versions of files at any given time so that different applications can use the ones they need.

• When Windows updates, new files are added but the existing ones are kept in case of any error.

•  Some applications require specific file versions to run properly, and Windows manages these versions.

•  This folder contains files for various Windows features, even when they are not being used just in case you need them later on.

• Some "duplicates" are just like shortcuts or links to the same file. Hence no real data duplication takes place.

Why are Duplicate Files in the Winsxs Folder - Elaborated Explanation

1. Side-by-Side Assemblies

The WinSxS folder stores different versions of system files known as assemblies. This allows applications to have their own specific versions of libraries or components without conflicting with other software. Although it may seem like there are duplicate files, these versions are necessary for a program to run properly.

2. Windows Updates and Patching

The WinSxS folder contains both old and new versions of system files. Whenever there are any updates on Windows, new versions of those files are poured into that folder. This enables recovery from previous versions if an update is problematic to avoid data loss.

3. Application-Specific Requirements

Windows keeps multiple copies of files in the WinSxS folder to make sure that your software runs smoothly. Although these copies look the same but are meant for different purposes. It will help you out to prevent errors and inconsistency. 

4. Component Store

The WinSxS folder stores essential parts of Windows. When Windows features are enabled or disabled they are neither deleted nor stored but rather remain in the WinSxS folder. So they can be easily reactivated whenever it is needed.

5. Hard Links

Some of these “duplicate” files are not identical copies but hard links instead. Hard links let multiple file names point to the same data on the disk, it means that there is no real duplication of data however much they appear so in the file system.

Is It Safe to Delete Duplicate Files in the WinSxS Folder?

The answer would be No. As, it is not safe to manually delete duplicate files from the WinSxS folder as it can affect your overall system. We will take you through the reasons behind it.

1. System Stability: The Windows operating system’s stability depends heavily on the WinSxS folder. Manually deleting files from it could cause software issues, system crashes or it can make your computer unresponsive to mouse and keyboard commands.

2. Breaking Updates: Manually deleting files can sometimes interfere with your Windows updates or patches in order to maintain its instability or security weaknesses now and then.

Safe Strategies for Managing the WinSxS Folder

As we have explained to you why are duplicate files in the WinSxS folder are important. Now, we will talk about different ways in which you can control the WinSxS folder.

1. Disk Cleanup Tool: You can free up your space on Windows computer using Disk Cleanup feature. You can just search for “Disk Cleanup” in the start menu and click on the option in order to delete your system files.

2. Dism Command: On the other hand, you can apply DISM (Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool) to purge WinSxS. The command is as follows:

Dism.exe /online /Cleanup-Image /StartComponentCleanup

This command safely removes older versions of components that are no longer needed.

3. Storage Sense: There is a functionality named Storage Sense in Windows 10 and later can automatically delete unnecessary files, including those located in the WinSxS folder.

Chief Tech to Delete Duplicate Files From the WinSxS Folder

A sureshot and the most secure way to find and delete duplicate files using the SysTools Duplicate File Finder. Make use of its advanced customization fields to choose hidden duplicate files, pictures and other kinds that are contained in the folder - folders.

Talking more about its specifications, it supports more than 70+ file formats including photos, video clips, document files and more. It shows exact details like duplicate data size and number of files. You can also limit scanning to specific folders or their subfolders. It offers strong scanning options for both normal and recursive Duplicates.

Conclusion

In this article, we have discussed why are duplicate files in the WinSxS folder are important and how you can manage them efficiently. The WinSxS folder might look like it has duplicates, but it is designed in such a way that it keeps your system stable and compatible with updates. By using the right tools and technique, you can manage this folder in the right way. Also, you can free up disk space and run your computer smoothly.