Windows XP Hotfix?

I recently started using a new computer and Windows XP.

When I go to "Add/Remove programs" from the control panel I find all these files .... "windows hotfix (sp2) Q329441 and Windows hotfix KB837001 ".

These are only two... there are many more there. It seems everytime I go look there are more added.

Can anyone tell me what I have to do with them or why they are there?

Thanks

jane021

 

windows hotfix

I think the entries refer to windows updates that have been installed. Check the settings for windows updates to see if it is set for Automatic you can then change it to manual if required see this link below for a good description of windows update

http://www.udel.edu/topics/windowsxp/XPupdate.html

 

Those are security updates from microsoft to protect your machine from viruses and crashes. They are expected, and welcome additions to your machine.

 

Thanks for answering my question ....

Since my knowledge of computers is so limited your help is greatly appreciated.

jane021

 

As Joe says these are the Windows Update installs. They can be uninstalled if a particular update causes problems, and you know which update was problematic. After a short period of time there would be no other reason to uninstall any of these, and naturally is not recommended.
But a system running a little low on system space (unlikely now days) or if you're just like me, then these files can be removed. PROVIDING the system is stable as there is NO going back (within reason). I remove (delete) the corresponding file(s) in the windows directory that look similar to $NtUninstallKB828741$ and are usually coloured blue. Then go to Add/Remove Programs via the Control Panel. Upon attempting to uninstall these hot fixes from Add/Remove you are presented with an error message and "would you like to remove the entry from Add/Remove" etc. But I'm just a squeeky clean kinda guy so you probably don't need to go to the same extremes as me.