Windows Update Uninstall Files

Hi,
I read somewhere recently that whenever you install a Windows XP update, the update, by default, also installs an uninstall program or files to allow you to uninstall the update in case it causes problems.
Also, this uninstall program or files can be removed if no longer needed.
Does anyone know where these uninstall programs or files are located on Windows XP Home and, is there a safe way to remove these files.
I understand that some of these can be rather large.
Thanks

 

Hello jslow,

In the windows folder. The files begin with $NTuninstall(patch #)$

Just delete them as any other file into the Recycle bin.

The only one that was very large was the uninstall for SP1 - approx 250 MB.

If you're reluctant to do without them entirely, burn them out to a cd, or create a System Restore point before deletion. If for whatever reason they would be needed again, you can restore to that point and retrieve them; for up to 90 days anyway.

Regards - Charles

 

Hi Charles,
Thanks for the reply.
My uninstall files look like this: $NTUninstallQ314862$
Is this the same as you noted?
Thanks

 

Hi jslow,

Yep, you got it.

Regards - Charles