win files deleted? 1

[rwbrick]

I have 65MB in a WINNT/INSTALLER directory that I'd like to delete. Actually it is renamed INSTALLER.OLD; the real INSTALLER directory has one .msi file of ~2+MB. Can I safely delete the 65MB directory?

Also, I have about 230MB in WINNT/ServicePackFiles directory. I'm guessing that these are Microsoft archived files from various service packs or fixes updates. I tested a half-dozen and found them duplicated in normal system directories. Can I safely delete these files?

I'm trying to improve performance of WIN2000 - SP4 in general. Plus I occasionally have the 100% CPU constipation problem mentioned in another thread, but not caused by the solutions mentioned there.

Rod B.

 

[wolluf]

If its installer.old, then its not in use so you should be able to delete it - but can't see how that will help.

You shouldn't delete the servicepackfiles folder (windows does use it). And again, can't see how deleting 230MB will help.

If you are really short of disk space, then you basically need to buy a larger hard drive.

If your disk space is ok, then performance problems are caused by (among others!):-

- too little RAM. Would suggest 256MB minimum for 2k - and more is better.
- too many start up programs. 2k doesn't have a utility to examine & edit this list - but just google autoruns, & install it. Many apps put themselves in the startup list without asking.
- 'hog' internet security software. Eg, norton, mcafee, zone alarm, spyware doctor to name a few. These apps (and others) often cause more problems than they solve. AVG is a good free anti-virus that doesn't hog machine. Windows Defender isn't available for 2k (well, unless you apply some tweaks), but spybot and adaware are - though no realtime protection from free version, and new adaware does use resources now. Agnitum's outpost older version was free firewall that doesn't hog - don't know if free version still available.

http://www.personalfirewall.comodo.com/download_firewall.html#fw2.4

looks ok too.
- viruses, spyware, malware (run scans with appropriate software)
- corrupt filestore - run chkdsk.
- damaged hard drive - use drive manufacturer's diagnostic to check it out.
- bad drivers/devices.