Allow configuring LocalCache/Cowork VM data location on Windows (MSIX install)
Preflight Checklist
- [x] I have searched existing requests and this feature hasn't been requested yet
- [x] This is a single feature request (not multiple features)
Problem Statement
On Windows, Claude Desktop installed via MSIX/Microsoft Store stores all Cowork VM data
in C:\Users\<user>\AppData\Local\Packages\Claude_pzs8sxrjxfjjc\LocalCache
This folder grows to 10-12GB with normal Cowork usage (creating apps, running tasks)
and cannot be moved to another drive. Attempts to use symbolic links or junctions
break the app entirely.
Users with small C: drives (117GB with Windows + other apps) run out of space quickly.
The "Move" button in Windows Settings only moves the executable, not LocalCache.
Users with limited C: drives run out of space quickly with no official workaround.
Proposed Solution
Add a setting in Claude Desktop to configure the data/cache directory location,
similar to how other Electron apps (VS Code, etc.) allow custom data paths.
Alternatively, document an official supported method to move LocalCache to another drive.
Alternative Solutions
- OS: Windows 11
- Install method: MSIX / Microsoft Store
- LocalCache grew to 12GB in 2 days of Cowork usage
- C: drive: 117GB total, leaving only ~30GB free after Claude
- Symbolic links and junctions to D: break the app on startup
- Related issues: #29792, #28892
Priority
Critical - Blocking my work
Feature Category
CLI commands and flags
Use Case Example
_No response_
Additional Context
_No response_
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