You might have noticed a lot of hidden files in your Windows directory starting with the string $NtUninstall and maybe you asked yourself the question if it was save to delete those files. Those $NtUninstall are created whenever you install a new service pack or patch from Microsoft. Most folders end with KBxxxxxx which related to the corresponding Knowledge Base article about the update.
The only negative effect of deleting those folders in your Windows directory has is that you will not be able to uninstall those Microsoft updates anymore. While most users could without doubt delete those $NtUninstall folders some might want to have a backup plan.
Instead of just deleting the folders you could first back them up on CD or DVD. This would ensure that you could copy them from the backup to the right location again if you wanted to uninstall a patch or service pack.
A quick check revealed that all those folder used roughly 200 Megabytes on my hard drive in compressed state. I personally feel that this is a bit to much and decided to delete those folders. I really can’t think of a situation why I wanted to uninstall a Microsoft update that I installed a while ago.
I would probably wait a few days before I would delete a folder from a brand new update which could make problems on my system but the older ones ?
Enjoyed the article?: Then sign-up for our free newsletter or RSS feed to kick off your day with the latest technology news and tips, or share the article with your friends and contacts on Facebook or Twitter.Related Articles:
Remove $NtUninstall Dirs in Windows XPHow to delete “cannot delete files”
Securely delete files with secure-delete
Deletist, Bulk Delete Folders And Files
Permanently Delete Files In Windows Explorer With RightDelete
I hope its safe. if not, i will trouble because delete so many files..
In fact, these folders are also created when Automatic Updates install, NOT only if you install a patch manually.
These folders occupy several gigabytes on my drive and I’ll now delete them ;)
Thanks for the information. I thought that’s a virus file. :). Thanks!