I think it's easiest to let your browser do the temp file and cookie cleanups.

What browser do you use?

IE

Sorry first post (edited out) was an answer to a different question. Need to watch morning comments.

Click on Gear, then Internet Options, then see Delete under the General Tab-Browsing history

A browser isn't going to clear the Temp folders - and there are often several.

It would have no way of knowing about temp files left by other program installs.

If another program left a temp file, it would no longer be temp. It would be permanent ... so how do you delete unwanted permanent files is what I want to know. And how would I know they're permanently unwanted ?

I am just not very comouter savvy.... So. with that being said....I thik I'll just take it to Office Depot..... Thanks for trying to help me though...

I'd assumed the question referred to cookies and other temp files (cache files) from browser use. Letting those build up can slow web browsing and also some confusion when a PC is shared between users in a household. Some browsers have a setting "clear on exit" and I personally prefer to use that setting.

Most people put their personal PCs to light use. Many users here are seasoned citizens for whom that description applies. One would likely never know or realize when there's been a build up of temp/perm files or even install files from non-browser programs. It's like wiping a clean desk out of habit. Just because "there's a way to clean it" doesn't mean it needs to be done or that anything is accomplished by doing so.

Edit for PS - Carolyn, do whatever you're most comfortable with, of course! Good luck.

>>"If another program left a temp file, it would no longer be temp. It
would be permanent ... so how do you delete unwanted permanent files is
what I want to know. And how would I know they're permanently unwanted
?"

If they're in a "temp" folder, you can pretty much be sure they're no longer needed. It's typically a holding place for files used during an installation. But most install routines don't then remove them - they're just left there to accumulate.

I suppose the case could be made that there's no harm in leaving them there - but do we really now that any better than the opposite. You can make the inverse case just as easily. And since there's no harm in emptying the temp file folders, I do it so as to minimize unknowns of interference or unnecessary space usage. I just do it along with emptying the Trash now and then, using CCleaner. There's no extra effort or downside.

Anyway, do what makes you happy.

Carolyn, I thought you just wanted to know how to clear some things out.

What is the actual problem you are trying to solve by clearing a temp folder or cookies ?