Windows comes packed with powerful command line tools that are essential for troubleshooting, system maintenance, and automation. Over time, however, these tools and their associated files—like temporary data, logs, or outdated configurations—may accumulate clutter, affecting both performance and usability. Regularly cleaning and maintaining Windows command line tools is a best practice not just for advanced users but for beginners as well. Here are five proven methods, along with step-by-step instructions and practical examples, to keep your system’s command line tools clean and efficient.
1. Remove Temporary Files Created by Command Line Tools
Beginner Section
Why Clean Temporary Files?
Tools like Command Prompt and PowerShell sometimes create temporary files during operations such as installations, updates, or scripting. Removing these files can free up space and prevent conflicts.
How to Clean Temporary Files
a. Open the Run dialog by pressing Windows + R.
b. Type %temp% and press Enter. This opens the temporary files folder.
c. Select all files (Ctrl + A) and press Delete.
Advanced Section
Automate Temporary File Cleanup
You can create a batch file to regularly clear temp folders:
1. Open Notepad.
2. Paste the following:
del /q/f/s “%TEMP%\*”
del /q/f/s “C:\Windows\Temp\*”
3. Save as CleanTemp.bat and run as administrator.
2. Clear Command Line Tool Histories
Beginner Section
Why Clear Command Histories?
Both Command Prompt and PowerShell save command histories. While convenient, this can pose privacy risks and clutter your workspace.
How to Clear Command Prompt History
a. In Command Prompt, type the following and press Enter:
cls
b. For privacy, close the window and relaunch it; the previous commands are cleared from that session.
How to Clear PowerShell History
a. In PowerShell, type:
Clear-History
Advanced Section
Delete Saved History Files
PowerShell’s persistent history may be stored in a file. To clear it:
a. Navigate to the history location:
C:\Users\\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\PowerShell\PSReadLine\ConsoleHost_history.txt
b. Delete or edit this file as needed.
3. Remove Unused or Outdated Command Line Tools
Beginner Section
Why Remove Unnecessary Tools?
Unused tools can pose security risks and consume storage. Removing them keeps your system lean.
How to Uninstall via Windows Features
a. Open Control Panel > Programs > Turn Windows features on or off.
b. Uncheck tools you no longer need, such as Windows PowerShell 2.0.
Advanced Section
Uninstall with DISM
Use Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool:
1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
2. List features:
DISM /Online /Get-Features /Format:Table
3. Disable a feature:
DISM /Online /Disable-Feature /FeatureName:
4. Clean Up and Optimize System Files Used by Command Line Tools
Beginner Section
Why Optimize System Files?
Command line tools often create logs or backup files. Cleaning these up boosts speed and frees disk space.
Using Disk Cleanup
a. Type Disk Cleanup in the Start menu and open it.
b. Select your drive (usually C:).
c. Check categories like Temporary files, System created Windows Error Reporting, and DirectX Shader Cache.
d. Click OK to delete.
Advanced Section
Use Command Line for Cleanup
a. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
b. Run:
cleanmgr /sageset:1
c. Select categories to delete.
d. Run:
cleanmgr /sagerun:1
5. Use Glary Utilities to Manage and Clean Command Line Tool Data
Beginner and Advanced Section
Why Use Glary Utilities?
Glary Utilities is a comprehensive system maintenance tool that simplifies the cleaning and optimization process. It can detect and remove junk files, repair registry issues, and manage startup items—all from an easy-to-use interface.
How to Clean with Glary Utilities
a. Download and install Glary Utilities from the official website.
b. Launch the program.
c. Use the 1-Click Maintenance feature, which scans for temporary files, invalid registry entries, and other system junk.
d. Click Repair Problems to clean your system.
For Advanced Users
Explore the Advanced Tools section in Glary Utilities to manage startup entries, uninstall system components, and schedule regular cleanups. This is especially useful for users who frequently utilize or test different command line utilities and wish to keep their environment tidy.
Final Thoughts
Regularly cleaning and maintaining Windows command line tools ensures efficiency, security, and optimal performance. By following these five methods—removing temporary files, clearing command histories, uninstalling unused tools, optimizing system files, and leveraging Glary Utilities—you can keep your system running smoothly whether you’re a novice or a power user. Consider setting a monthly reminder to perform these tasks and enjoy a clutter-free Windows experience.