How and where does Windows XP keep info on software I've un-installed, and how do I get rid of it?

Answer 1

The registry.

BE CAREFUL!!!!!

Cleaning the registry is NOT for beginners. I would suggest a lot of backup and research before attempting.

You can start by doing a Google search: Cleaning XP Registry


From one site: "Windows registry is the "heart and soul" of your Windows computer. Similar to a file system where you store your documents, registry is where Windows system stores information about your computer. All software and hardware settings, as well as every other aspect of the system configuration is stored in the registry. Similar to a file system registry is organized in a hierarchical tree-like structure. For example, the settings for Internet Explorer are stored in HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Internet Explorer (computer specific settings) as well as HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer (user specific settings) keys or registry files. Windows uses this information to perform every operation.

When you install new software (even if you install a small ActiveX component from the Internet) or make any changes to the configuration (add new hardware or modify appearance of your desktop) the changes are recorded in the registry.

If you have a brand new computer your registry is clean and healthy. However, over time it accumulates old and incorrect records which can lead to system errors and slowdown in performance. In addition, spyware, keyloggers, viruses, and Trojan horses use registry to manipulate the system.

Registry is the most sensitive and critical element of the Microsoft operating system. Cleaning and repairing registry requires knowledge and expertise. Doing it the wrong way can lead to more problems and even fatal system errors. Doing it the right way will lead to less system errors and better performance."

Answer 2

Windows keeps that kind of information in the registry. Windows registry is a huge database that stores information about the programs you have. When you uninstall a program the information in the registry is not always deleted. It hangs around and will bog your computer down eventually. You should never get into the registry unless you know what you are doing. If you mess around in the registry your computer could become unusuable. Get a program like Registry Medic. That will get rid of all that junk and actually help your computer start up faster.

Answer 3

In the Windows directory, there are hidden file folders with names that start with $NtUninstall. These contain uninstall files for various programs. There are also pointers to these in the registry in many cases. May God bless and keep you.

Answer 4

Well all those infos are stored it the registry but if u remove the registry the program will not work and remving important will cause system unstabality.


Neo

Answer 5

goto the start button-then goto run-type in temp
this takes you to your temp folder where most things you download or get rid of are at.other then that probably the recycle bin

Answer 6

go to start, run
and then type in (without the quotes) "%temp%"
then delete all the files
and disconnect from the internet while doing that