Install hotfixes from old files

A computer I am working on had a corrupted OS on it. I backed up the old system and did a fresh install. Now I'm wondering if it is possible to install the hotfixes off the old system without having to download them all again (I have a slow connection). Other than the updates both systems are the same, XP Pro SP3. The files are kept in KBxxxxxx folders under the $hf_mig$ folder in Windows, but running update.exe in such a folder just produces an update.inf error. What am I missing?

 

Sadly > No

Unless you download each security update manually, then save them to a folder to use again, you cannot just grab them from the original system (where they were downloaded to hidden system folders and temp locations)

XP Service Pack 3: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/windowsxp/sp3/default.mspx
And then continue the rest through Windows Updates
That way you have the right Security Updates for how your system presently is (ie some MS updates are installed after you install further programs like DotNet etc)

Once your system is fully up to date and working well, you could image the drive so as next time it will take about 30mins to do the lot (including the entire of Windows)

Imaging programs such as Acronis have been made just for this situation.
But Windows must be working to get imaged in the first place. So good for next time if ever required.