Windows:\Software Distribution

In the folder C:\Windows\Software Distribution there is a subfolder " Downloads ": in my system ( XP SP3 updated ) it takes 600 Mb of space. I did a search with Google: it seems that is possible in Software Distribution to delete safe this subfolder, keeping the others with the full updates history.

Someone tried it or can confirm ?

 

probably ok to delete. if really concerned make a backup before. also remove old patches starting with $NTuninstall

 

Thanks. I've been removed old pathces since much time. And True Image is always working.

 

It's safe on XP. Actually, it's also a last resort way to get Windows/Microsoft Update working. Note that you'll lose your update history when you delete contents. (Not the actual updates, just the history tracking). You'll also be prompted to reinstall the WU/MU controls when you revisit the MS site for updates.

 

Thanks, I already knew it, and I didn't delete the inside folder " Data story "; anyway, the only one important thing, is that at the next security update Windows Update say to me only the new updates that I' ll need ( I do only security updates, and manually, not automatically.

 

I'm using Dial-a-fix to delete it. No problem so far. Its just your wins update history including Wins Defender. Safe to delete.
http://www.softpedia.com/get/System/System-Miscellaneous/Dial-a-fix.shtml

Unzip DAF > run dial-a-afix > click Flush software distribution > done.

Warning

Leave unticked all box or you'r windows corrupt

 

Bold Fotune Slimming XP Guide

 

Thanks, abu shofwan

 

Hey, a very nice guide ! I usually delete the $hf_mig$ folders and the unistallation files, so also I set the Windows services disabling most of them, but the other suggestions are to study.

 

Yes I followed the guide for my XP installs but I also heeded Bold Fortune's warning:

 

After a successful Windows Update I delete the contents of...

C:\WINDOWS\SoftwareDistribution\Download

Then I delete all the uninstall files but I leave the $hf_mig$ folder.

Windows Update works normally thereafter. I don't see the issues described above.