SquirrelTemp: What It is & Should I Remove It?

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Written by: Stelian Pilici

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If you have noticed a folder named SquirrelTemp on your computer, you might be wondering what it is and whether it is safe to delete it. In this blog post, we will explain what SquirrelTemp is, how it got there, and what you can do about it.

FIles Windows 11

What is SquirrelTemp?

SquirrelTemp is a temporary folder that is created by some applications that use a framework called Squirrel. Squirrel is a tool that helps developers create and update desktop applications for Windows. Some examples of applications that use Squirrel are Slack, Discord, Spotify, and Atom.

SquirrelTemp is used to store files that are needed for installing or updating these applications. For example, when you download and run the installer for Slack, it will create a SquirrelTemp folder and extract some files there. Then, it will use those files to install Slack on your computer. Similarly, when Slack needs to update itself, it will download the new version and store it in the SquirrelTemp folder before applying the update.

Should I Remove SquirrelTemp?

The short answer is: it depends. If you are not using any applications that use Squirrel, then you can safely delete the SquirrelTemp folder. However, if you are using any of those applications, then deleting the SquirrelTemp folder might cause some problems.

For example, if you delete the SquirrelTemp folder while an application is installing or updating, you might interrupt the process and corrupt the application. This could make the application unusable or unstable. In that case, you would have to reinstall the application from scratch.

Another example is if you delete the SquirrelTemp folder after an application has installed or updated successfully. In that case, you might not cause any immediate harm, but you might prevent the application from updating itself in the future. This could make the application outdated or insecure. In that case, you would have to manually check for updates and download them yourself.

Therefore, we recommend that you do not delete the SquirrelTemp folder unless you are sure that you do not need it anymore. A better option is to let the applications that use Squirrel manage the SquirrelTemp folder themselves. They will usually delete the files in the SquirrelTemp folder after they are done using them. However, sometimes they might leave some files behind due to errors or bugs. In that case, you can try to delete those files manually, but be careful not to delete any files that are still in use.

How to delete SquirrelTemp?

You can safely delete SquirrelTemp if you are sure that none of the applications that use Squirrel are currently running or updating. To do so, you can follow these steps:

  1. Close all the applications that use Squirrel, such as Slack, Discord, Spotify, and Atom.
  2. Open File Explorer and navigate to the location of SquirrelTemp. It is usually located in C:\Users\YourUserName\AppData\Local\SquirrelTemp.
  3. Select the SquirrelTemp folder and press Delete. You may need to confirm the deletion or provide administrator permission.
  4. Empty the Recycle Bin to free up the space.

Alternatively, you can use a third-party tool such as CCleaner or Disk Cleanup to remove SquirrelTemp and other temporary files from your computer.

Conclusion

SquirrelTemp is a temporary folder that is created by some applications that use a framework called Squirrel. It is used to store files that are needed for installing or updating those applications. You should not delete the SquirrelTemp folder unless you are sure that you do not need it anymore, as it might cause some problems with your applications. A better option is to let the applications manage the SquirrelTemp folder themselves.

How to Stay Safe Online

Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:

  1. Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.

    Shield Guide

    It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.

  2. Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.

    updates-guide

    Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.

  3. Be careful when installing programs and apps.

    install guide

    Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."

  4. Install an ad blocker.

    Ad Blocker

    Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.

  5. Be careful what you download.

    Trojan Horse

    A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.

  6. Be alert for people trying to trick you.

    warning sign

    Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.

  7. Back up your data.

    backup sign

    Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.

  8. Choose strong passwords.

    lock sign

    Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.

  9. Be careful where you click.

    cursor sign

    Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.

  10. Don't use pirated software.

    Shady Guide

    Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.

To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.

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