MSOCache Folder (Microsoft Office Local Install Source)

Bottom Line: It is generally safe to delete MSOCache, but use caution. Deleting it won’t break Microsoft Office, but if Office ever needs to repair itself or install a major feature update, you may be prompted to insert your original installation disc or re-download setup files.

What is the MSOCache Folder?

Located at C:\MSOCache (a hidden folder on your main system drive), MSOCache is the Local Install Source created automatically when you install Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, etc.).

Instead of keeping the installation files solely on your setup USB/disc, Microsoft copies the setup files directly to your hard drive. This ensures that when Office installs updates, service packs, or optional features, it can access the original installation files instantly without asking you for a disc.

Can You Delete MSOCache?

⚠️ Use Caution — Yes, but with trade-offs.

• What happens if you delete it? All installed Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) will continue to work without any issues.
• The drawback: Next time Microsoft Office runs a repair or installs a major component update, it won’t find C:\MSOCache. It will pop up a window asking you to provide the original installation media or installer-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder)-folder).

If you have a fast internet connection or office setup media readily available, deleting MSOCache is a quick way to free up 1 to 4 GB on SSDs with limited storage.

How to Safely Clean Up MSOCache

Do not simply press Shift + Delete on the folder right away. Instead, use Windows built-in tools or the correct method below.

Method 1: Using Windows Disk Cleanup (Recommended)

1. Press Win + R, type cleanmgr, and press Enter.
2. Select your C: drive and click OK.
3. Click Clean up system files (requires Administrator privileges).
4. Scroll through the list and check Office Installation Files.
5. Click OK to remove the cached setup files safely.

Method 2: Manual Deletion (If Disk Cleanup doesn’t show it)

1. Open File Explorer, click View > Show > Hidden items (or Options > Folder Options > View hidden files).
2. Go to C:\MSOCache.
3. Right-click the MSOCache folder and select Delete (or move it to an external drive as a backup first).

What Happens After You Delete It?

• You immediately gain 1 GB to 4 GB of free space.
• Office apps run normally.
• If a future Office update prompts for missing files, you can simply run the Office installer online or repair Office from Settings > Apps > Installed Apps.

Related Guides

• Learn about SoftwareDistribution Folder cleanup for Windows Update.
• Check if you can safely delete Outlook OST & PST files.
• See how to safely shrink the WinSxS Component Store.