Office Settings & Configuration

Is It Safe to Delete Winword.exe_Rules and Outlook.exe_Rules XML Files?

Maira Mehtab Oct 19, 2026 869 views

Question details

Users want to know if they can safely delete the accumulating Winword.exe_Rules and Outlook.exe_Rules XML files generated by Microsoft Office.

Is It Safe to Delete Winword.exe_Rules and Outlook.exe_Rules XML Files?

Product: Microsoft Office
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Managing disk space and cleaning up accumulated diagnostic or telemetry data in system folders.
Observed behavior: Winword.exe_Rules and Outlook.exe_Rules folders accumulate numerous XML files over time due to Microsoft Office telemetry and error reporting.

Before you start

Ensure you close Microsoft Word, Outlook, and all other active Office applications so the system releases any locks on the files.

Solution 1Recommended

Safely Delete the Diagnostic XML Files

Remove the accumulated XML files safely without disrupting your Microsoft Office applications.

Deleting these XML files is generally safe because Microsoft Office can automatically recreate any required files during its normal operation. However, doing so will remove past diagnostic, telemetry, and troubleshooting data.

Create a backup

Before making changes, copy the XML files to a different folder on your computer so you have a backup in case you need to restore them.

Select the XML files

Navigate to the Winword.exe_Rules or Outlook.exe_Rules folder. Select only the XML files inside the directory.

Delete the files

Press the Delete key to remove the selected XML files. Do not delete the entire parent folder itself unless Microsoft Support explicitly advises you to do so.

Safe Recreation: Office will automatically generate new diagnostic files as needed the next time you run Word or Outlook.

Solution 2

Troubleshoot Rapidly Multiplying XML Files

Take action if the diagnostic files are generating at an unusually fast rate and consuming excessive disk space.

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Switch to WPS Office for a Clutter-Free Experience

If you are tired of managing hidden telemetry and rapidly multiplying diagnostic files, WPS Office offers a clean, reliable alternative. It is a highly compatible and lightweight office suite that preserves your system space while handling all your document needs.

1. Download the installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free, lightweight installer.
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3. Open existing files: Double-click your Microsoft Office documents to open them instantly in WPS Office without any format loss.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of Winword.exe_Rules and Outlook.exe_Rules XML files?

These XML files are automatically generated by Microsoft Office. They store data related to application diagnostics, usage telemetry, application rules, and error reporting to help Microsoft identify and fix software issues.

Will deleting these XML files break Word or Outlook?

No. Deleting the XML files is perfectly safe because Microsoft Office is designed to recreate any essential application files the next time you launch Word or Outlook.

Can I delete the entire Winword.exe_Rules folder instead of just the files?

It is highly recommended that you do not delete the parent folder. Only remove the XML files inside the folder unless a Microsoft Support technician specifically instructs you to delete the entire directory.

Why do these diagnostic files keep multiplying on my computer?

Rapid file generation usually occurs if Office is actively logging ongoing application errors or if your diagnostic data settings are configured to capture high levels of telemetry. Running an Office repair and updating your software often resolves this.

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