Removing Old Windows Updates
Please note this is only for Windows XP and does not relate to Vista or Windows 7
Folders that have uninstall as part of the name (for example $NtUninstallKB282010$ which reside in C:\windows (hidden folders) are Window Hot Fix Update folders/files) can be safely deleted (providing you never wish to uninstall the updates). I would recommend leaving these folders for a period of at least a month to make sure the update is working correctly.
These updates can be deleted individually or in multiples. To find out more about the update/s go to:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/XXXXXX
NB: XXXXXX = the actual number not including the "Q" or "KB"
Once you have deleted the uninstall folders/files, then go to Control Panel, Add/Remove Programs. Select the matching Windows Hotfix Title relating the update folder/file you have just deleted and select remove. You will get a Windows error. This is because you have deleted the uninstall folder/files. Just choose OK and the entry will be deleted from the Add/Remove Programs Listing.
Do NOT delete the $hf_mig$ folder
Tidying up after installing SP2
http://aumha.org/win5/a/sp2faq.php#after
and/or
XP SP3: Post Installation Cleanup
How to reclaim disk space on a Windows XP-based computer that has a hard disk capacity of 4 GB or less
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/956324