What are temporary (.TMP) files and how do I delete them?
Temporary files (also called “temp files”) usually have filenames that end with the extension .TMP. Though they share the same file extension, temporary files can be created by many different programs. This can make it difficult to figure out what program created a specific temp file, or even where the file came from. Sometimes, the part of the filename before the extension will give you a clue as to where the file is from. For example, if the filename is “2006_annual_report.tmp,” the file might be a Word document or Excel spreadsheet that was named “2006 annual report.” Other times, the location of a temp file may help you determine what program created the file. For example, if you find a temp file in a folder named “Temporary Files” within the main folder of a certain application, the temporary file most likely belongs to that application. Why are temp files created? Programs create temporary files primarily for backup purposes. Many programs, such as those included with Microsoft O
