Primary Storage or Partition, where Windows is installed, is a location for many software programs, including system recovery. While these files are folders are usually hidden, but if you manage to see them, and all of a sudden locate SYSTEM.SAV folder then don’t be surprised. These files are safe, but they are not created by Microsoft. In this post, we will learn about the SYSTEM.SAV folder in Windows 11/10.
What is the SYSTEM.SAV folder in Windows 11/10
When researching the forums, some comments point out that it is related to the System Recovery Manager from HP, and this folder is used to install software of the box, i.e., applications that come preinstalled or when you recover your PC using the recovery manager.
That said when searching over the HP forums, I was clearly able to find posts which talk about recovery manager failures, and System.SAV folder with log files.
Is it safe to delete System SAV?
While you may delete it, it is not recommended to delete it. One of the forums posts on HP clearly said-
Do not delete any files that are associated with system recovery! Do not delete the items: $RECYCLE.BIN, boot, hp, preload, Recovery, RecoveryImage, system.sav, bootmgr, BT_HP.FLG, CSP.DAT, DeployRp, HP_WSD.dat, HPSF_Rep, language, or RPCONFIG! Doing so can prevent a future system recovery from the hard drive. If you are not sure, do not delete the file.
HP Recovery should create this folder during the recovery process to restore the PC to its original state. The folder contains configuration files and utilities, all of which are useful for recovery using HP’s tool.
Read: What is System Reserved Partition?
That said, it is a fact that it occupies too much space. If you plan to delete it, ensure that you have a working system restore point setup, and then proceed with the deletion.
Lastly, there are ways to create more space in your primary drive. Storage Sense is a great feature in Windows 11/10, which can routinely check and remove files from folders such as downloads and other junk folders.
Can you delete a system folder?
The operating system will not allow you to delete a system folder or file. In any case, you should not delete any system folder, as it usually contains essential files required for Windows to work properly. Deleting it can cause your computer to malfunction or become unbootable.
